There’s no disputing the fact that the past few years, and perhaps the last year in particular, have exposed deep divisions in our country. Many people have taken to social media to find others who see things from their perspective and to vent about politicians and...
Aggressively Protecting Your Rights
Federal Crimes
What should you know about a grand jury?
For people who are being accused of serious crimes, hearing that their case is going before the grand jury is one thing they might hear is going to happen. It’s imperative that they understand exactly what the grand jury does and what this means for their case. A...
Racketeering charges aren’t just for mob bosses
When most people hear the term “racketeering,” they picture a character played by Robert De Niro or Joe Pesci in a mob movie. The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act of 1970 indeed was designed to target organized crime, which has been involved...
Accused of conspiracy? Act fast to defend yourself
Getting accused of conspiracy is a major allegation. This only happens when the authorities believe that two or more people came together and agreed to participate in a crime of some form. You should know that you don’t actually have to commit a crime for conspiracy...
Are drug dealers responsible for an overdose death?
The opioid crisis in our nation has received a lot of attention by lawmakers in recent years. Opioid misuse could lead to a deadly overdose, which we all want to work to prevent. However, when it comes to an overdose death, the delicate question of whether the drug...
Federal crimes: The facts and figures
In 2014, the federal government released data on the number of people who committed federal crimes and the types of crimes they committed. Interestingly, it's not just individuals committing fraud against the government. Institutions or corporations do as well, with...
What is mail fraud, and is it a federal crime?
There are many kinds of fraud that take place in the United States, but one that is strictly forbidden is mail fraud. Mail fraud refers specifically to any fraud that passes through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Mail fraud has a broad definition, and it can include...
Involuntary manslaughter: What it means in Minnesota
You were driving when you hit another vehicle. You never intended for anyone to get hurt, but someone was thrown and ended up with fatal injuries. Now, you face criminal charges. What kinds of charges could you face, and will you be looked at as a murderer? You're...
Man sentenced to 1 year in prison for threats against mosque
Making a threat can get you into trouble with the law, even if you have no intention on following through with them. Words are not just words, especially when another person fears for his or her life or the lives of others. In a March 9 report, it is stated that a...
Accused of stopping an emergency call? There’s help for you
Interfering with emergency services is a very serious crime that can be penalized in Minnesota. Interrupting a 911 call is punishable by law in Minnesota. What that means is that no person can stop another from calling 911 in any circumstances or force the person to...