Mortgage Fraud Charges Arise From Federal Drug Trafficking Investigation

In a case that speaks to recent aggressive federal law enforcement efforts, drug trafficking investigations lead to mortgage fraud charges.

2010-08-26

August 26, 2010 (Press-News.org) Federal prosecutors in Florida recently announced charges against six Miami-Dade men who are accused of using false information to obtain financing for several marijuana grow houses in St. Lucie, Palm Beach and Loxahatchee. The defendants face an array of counts, including conspiracy, mail fraud, drug crimes and laundering drug-related money through the purchase of the homes.

According to a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) press release, the indictments arise from a lengthy investigation involving marijuana grow operations in numerous homes in Port St. Lucie that began in 2006. Several of the homes were owned by one of the defendants, who has yet to be apprehended on these 2006 drug charges. Several were released on bond pending trial. This case reveals the broad reach of federal prosecutors and law enforcement, and the wide net that such investigations can cast to name defendants and identify potential witnesses.

Financial crimes have begun to receive increased focus due to Operation Stolen Dreams, an initiative launched by the U.S. Government's Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. In this case, the defendants are accused of submitting loan applications to mortgage lenders that contained falsified W2 forms, bank statements, verifications of deposit, pay stubs and employment verifications. A complex variety of federal statutes, case law and trial procedure will be involved in the resolution of these cases.

Preparing a Strong Criminal Defense

From simple possession to federal drug trafficking charges -- whether individuals already face allegations of criminal activity or they have begun to feel the heat of an investigation -- a criminal trial attorney can help them understand their rights and assess their options for a smart and prudent legal defense. DEA and FBI agents, state and local investigators, and federal and state prosecutors have tremendous resources at their disposal. By taking quick action, people accused or suspected of crimes can explore a variety of strategies for protecting their freedom, including discussion and negotiation with authorities before charges are filed.

Article provided by Williams & Wiseman, P.A.
Visit us at www.floridadefenselaw.com

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