Wire Fraud Defense Lawyer Daytona

Defending Against Wire Fraud Charges in Daytona

Wire fraud is a serious federal offense involving electronic communications—emails, phone calls, or financial transactions—to commit fraud for personal or monetary gain. Because wire fraud often crosses state lines or involves interstate commerce, it falls under federal jurisdiction, and the penalties are far more severe than those of many state-level fraud offenses.

A federal wire fraud conviction can lead to significant prison time, steep fines, and lasting repercussions that impact your personal and professional future. Prosecutors vigorously pursue these cases, frequently adding multiple counts to enhance the potential penalties. Even a mere allegation can harm your reputation, financial status, and career opportunities.

Wire fraud cases are inherently complex, often involving digital evidence, financial transactions, and federal investigations. The federal government has vast resources, including agencies such as the FBI, the SEC, and the DOJ, all working to build a strong case against you. This is why hiring an experienced wire fraud defense lawyer is critical. A skilled federal crime attorney can analyze the charges, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a strategic defense tailored to your case.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our attorneys bring years of experience defending financial crime cases. We have proven results in high-stakes federal cases and employ a client-focused approach. 

If you are under investigation or facing charges, contact an experienced wire fraud defense attorney to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

What Is Wire Fraud?

Wire fraud is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, which broadly prohibits defrauding someone of money, property, or services through electronic communication, such as phone calls, emails, or online transactions. 

To secure a conviction, federal prosecutors must prove that the defendant intentionally devised or participated in a fraudulent scheme and used electronic means to carry out or further the deception.

Wire fraud can involve false promises, misleading statements, or deceptive tactics to persuade someone to transfer money or assets. Unlike traditional fraud, which often relies on face-to-face interactions, wire fraud depends on digital communications, making it a frequent charge in business scams, financial fraud, and cybercrime cases.

How Electronic Communications Play a Role

The "wire" in wire fraud refers to electronic communication that crosses state or international borders. 

Wire fraud offenses can include:

• Emails and text messages used to send fraudulent investment opportunities.
• Phone calls impersonating businesses or government officials to extract sensitive information.
• Online financial transactions involving electronic funds transfers or cryptocurrency scams.
• Faxes, radio transmissions, or television broadcasts spreading false information for financial gain.

Because wire fraud applies to any fraudulent scheme involving electronic transmissions, it is a widely used charge in federal white collar crime cases and often accompanies related offenses such as securities fraud, identity theft, bank fraud, and money laundering.

Elements of a Wire Fraud Charge

Federal prosecutors must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt to convict someone of wire fraud. Unlike other forms of fraud involving direct physical interactions, wire fraud consists in using electronic communications to deceive or mislead another party.

A Scheme to Defraud

A fraudulent scheme—a plan or course of action designed to deceive another party for financial or personal gain—is at the core of any wire fraud case. 

Artifices to deceive can involve:

• False promises or misrepresentations to gain money, property, or services.
• Omissions of material facts, where essential information is intentionally withheld.
• Dishonest tactics, such as phishing scams, investment fraud, or impersonation.

The prosecution must show that the defendant intentionally and knowingly took part in the scheme rather than proving the success of the attempt. Even if no one experienced financial harm, simply attempting to commit fraud can result in federal charges.

Use of Interstate or International Communications

Wire fraud is distinct because it specifically involves interstate or international electronic communications. Any use of emails, text messages, phone calls, financial transactions, or online activities that cross state or national borders can qualify as wire fraud. The government must show that electronic transmissions were used to further the scheme.

For example:

• A scam email sent from Florida to California could trigger federal wire fraud charges.
• A fraudulent online investment scheme targeting international clients may lead to even more severe consequences.
• A single phone call made as part of a deceptive business practice could be enough to establish jurisdiction.

Use of Deception or False Statements

Wire fraud cases often revolve around material misstatements or omissions—falsehoods significant enough to influence a victim’s decision-making. 

These could include:

• Falsified financial records to persuade investors or lenders.
• Fake identities or impersonation in scams like phishing attacks.
• Misleading advertisements or fraudulent sales tactics used to manipulate consumers.

Not all false statements constitute fraud. The deception must be deliberate and material, potentially affecting the victim’s financial decisions. Puffery, exaggeration, or simple mistakes generally do not meet the legal threshold for wire fraud.

Federal Wire Fraud Penalties

Wire fraud is a serious federal offense, and the penalties reflect the government’s commitment to prosecuting financial crimes. A conviction can lead to lengthy prison sentences, steep fines, and financial restitution, impacting a person’s future. Because wire fraud often involves electronic communications that cross state or national borders, federal authorities—including the FBI, DOJ, and SEC—aggressively investigate and prosecute these cases.

Prison Sentences for Wire Fraud

Under 18 U.S.C. § 1343, a standard conviction for wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison. 

However, certain aggravating factors can result in even harsher penalties. If the fraud involves a financial institution (such as a bank or credit union) or was committed during a presidentially declared major disaster or emergency, the sentence can increase to up to 30 years in prison.

Fines and Restitution

Wire fraud convictions can also result in significant financial penalties. Defendants may face fines of up to $250,000 per offense. If the fraud involves a financial institution or occurs during a declared emergency, fines can increase to $1,000,000.

Courts often order restitution, requiring convicted individuals to repay the victims for financial losses caused by the fraudulent scheme. This amount is determined based on the actual harm suffered by victims, meaning restitution could exceed the fines imposed.

Sentencing Enhancements Under RICO Laws

If the wire fraud scheme is linked to organized crime, racketeering, or other large-scale financial crimes, the defendant may face additional penalties under RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) laws.

Choose an Experienced Daytona Beach Wire Fraud Defense Attorney

Wire fraud charges carry severe consequences, including lengthy federal prison sentences, hefty fines, and lasting damage to your reputation. These highly complex cases involve digital communications, financial records, and aggressive federal prosecution. An experienced wire fraud defense attorney can analyze the government’s case, challenge weak or unlawfully obtained evidence, and develop a strategic defense. Whether arguing lack of intent, insufficient evidence, or entrapment, a skilled federal defense lawyer can work to have charges reduced or dismissed. They can negotiate a favorable plea deal to minimize penalties or advocate for you in court if necessary.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our Daytona Beach criminal defense attorneys are former prosecutors who know how federal investigations unfold and what it takes to mount a strong defense. We have a proven track record in white collar criminal defense, securing favorable outcomes for clients facing financial crime allegations. Past successes don’t guarantee future outcomes, but we remain steadfast in fighting for our clients.

If you are under investigation or charged with wire fraud, time is critical. Call us or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated Daytona Beach wire fraud defense lawyer.