Northwest Indiana Public Corruption Attorney

Federal prosecutors and agents pursue allegations of public corruption in all levels of federal, state, and local government. Unfortunately, the mere suggestion of public corruption, no matter the truth, can destroy a public official’s political career and erase a lifetime of hard, honest work for those they serve. 

We defend all types of federal public corruption crimes. While most Northwest Indiana defense attorneys are solo practitioners, we are unique. We are a team of six attorneys.  Four of us are former prosecutors.  Two of us are career defense practitioners.  With 80+ years of combined experience on both sides of the aisle, we understand all varieties of Northwest Indiana public corruption prosecutions.

We Can Help With Different Types of Public Corruption Cases

We can defend you against the following types of public corruption charges, among others.

Bribery

Bribery occurs when one gives an item of value, usually money, to a public official with the intent to influence their official actions or duties.  Giving money to a public official in exchange for their vote on an issue important to your business like a hiring contract or work order is an example of bribery that would require you to find a bribery attorney.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement occurs when someone in a position of trust misappropriates or siphons money from their employer, business partner, or company.  In the public corruption context, it occurs when federal funding is fraudulently diverted from its intended use, or skimmed, to line various pockets.

Campaign Law Violations

To ensure election integrity, political campaigns are regulated by both federal and state law.   Concealing the identity of donors or masking the source of corporate campaign contributions may violate federal law.

Money Laundering

Money laundering occurs when a person conceals income to hide evidence of illegal activity.  This occurs when campaigns funnel money through companies to conceal the identity of the true payee, or when political parties illegally steer money to campaigns without disclosing the true source of the funds.

Bid Rigging

Bid rigging occurs when government entities, public officials, or their employees collude with contractors to fix the results of a bidding process that is publicly presented as competitive or required by law to be competitive.

Graft 

Graft is a type of political corruption wherein a politician uses their authority in an unethical manner for their own personal gain. This abuse of power occurs when a politician deliberately misdirects public funds to benefit private interests. 

Honest Services Fraud

Honest services fraud, as defined by the Supreme Court, consists of "fraudulent schemes to deprive another of honest services through bribes or kickbacks supplied by a third party who has not been deceived." 

Ghost Employment

Ghost employment occurs when a public official puts a person on the public payroll in name only.  The person is then paid public money for nonexistent work..  

How We Defend Against Public Corruption Charges in Northwest Indiana

Creating an effective defense against public corruption allegations requires you to get started early, investigate thoroughly, and gather the right evidence, among other critical activities. We can help you with the following matters:

• Pleading requirements: In a public corruption case, the prosecutor must plead and prove each element of your charged offenses. If there is any weakness in the prosecutor’s pleadings, we will seize upon it and file a motion to dismiss your case. 
• The discovery process: During the discovery phase, each side demands evidence that is in possession of the other side. The discovery process is complex and difficult, but it must be done thoroughly and with precision.
• Witnesses: Accountants and service providers often serve as key witnesses in public corruption cases. It is important to locate these witnesses, secure their cooperation, and prepare them appropriately.

Stracci Law Group Can Help You With Your Case!

If you have been charged with public corruption, you have no time to waste.  Public corruption cases are typically complex, and prosecutors are trained to exploit every nuance in the law. This is no time to go it alone. You are going to need experienced public corruption attorneys at your side throughout the process.