Public Corruption

Public Corruption: How Josh Tomsheck of Hofland & Tomsheck Can Defend You Against Federal Public Corruption Charges

Public corruption refers to the abuse of public office for personal gain, including bribery, extortion, fraud, and other acts that violate the public trust. Federal public corruption cases are aggressively prosecuted under statutes such as the Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951) and Bribery Statutes (18 U.S.C. § 201). Convictions for public corruption can lead to severe penalties, including long prison sentences, substantial fines, and the forfeiture of any illegally obtained assets.

If you or someone you know is facing federal public corruption charges, it is essential to have an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of public corruption law and can build a strong defense. Josh Tomsheck, a nationally Board-Certified criminal defense attorney with Hofland & Tomsheck, has successfully defended clients against federal public corruption charges. His expertise in federal law and his dedication to his clients make him a trusted advocate in these complex cases.

Understanding Federal Public Corruption Laws

Federal public corruption charges often involve the misuse of a public office or position of authority for personal gain. Public corruption can take many forms, including bribery, extortion, and fraud.

1. Bribery (18 U.S.C. § 201): This statute makes it a federal crime for public officials to demand, receive, or accept anything of value in exchange for being influenced in the performance of their official duties. Bribery is one of the most common charges in public corruption cases.
2. The Hobbs Act (18 U.S.C. § 1951): This statute criminalizes extortion by public officials, which involves the wrongful use of force, fear, or threats to obtain money or property. The Hobbs Act is frequently used to prosecute public corruption cases involving extortion or threats made by officials.
3. Honest Services Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1346): This statute criminalizes schemes in which a public official deprives others of the right to honest services by engaging in bribery or kickback schemes. Honest services fraud charges often accompany public corruption cases involving unethical conduct by government officials.
4. The Travel Act (18 U.S.C. § 1952): This statute criminalizes the use of interstate commerce, such as mail or telephone communications, to facilitate acts of bribery, extortion, or other forms of public corruption.

Penalties for Federal Public Corruption Convictions

Federal public corruption convictions can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences, hefty fines, and the forfeiture of any illegally obtained assets. The severity of the penalties depends on the scope of the corruption, the amount of money involved, and the defendant’s role in the scheme.

• Imprisonment: Convictions for public corruption can result in prison sentences ranging from 5 to 20 years, depending on the nature of the crime and the financial harm caused to the public. In cases involving bribery or extortion, longer prison sentences may be imposed.
• Fines: Public corruption convictions can result in substantial fines, often in the range of hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, particularly in cases involving significant financial harm to the government or the public.
• Forfeiture of Assets: Defendants convicted of public corruption are typically required to forfeit any assets or property obtained through corrupt practices, including bribes or kickbacks.
• Restitution: In addition to fines and forfeiture, defendants convicted of public corruption may be required to pay restitution to compensate the government or victims for financial losses resulting from the corruption.

Common Defenses in Federal Public Corruption Cases

When defending against federal public corruption charges, Josh Tomsheck uses a variety of defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of Intent: One of the key elements of public corruption is the intent to commit an unlawful act. Josh Tomsheck will argue that the defendant did not have the intent to accept bribes, engage in extortion, or otherwise misuse their position for personal gain.
• Challenging the Evidence: Public corruption cases often rely on testimony from coconspirators, communications, and financial records. Josh Tomsheck will thoroughly review the evidence to determine if it was lawfully obtained and whether it supports the charges. He may file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the credibility of witnesses.
• No Quid Pro Quo: In bribery cases, the prosecution must prove that there was a quid pro quo (something given in exchange for something else). Josh Tomsheck will argue that the defendant’s actions were legitimate and that no improper exchange occurred.
• Entrapment: In some cases, defendants may have been pressured or coerced into engaging in corrupt activities by undercover agents or informants. Josh Tomsheck will present evidence showing that the defendant was entrapped and did not willingly participate in the crime.

How Josh Tomsheck Can Help You in Federal Public Corruption Cases

Federal public corruption cases are complex and require an attorney with a deep understanding of both criminal law and the specific statutes governing public officials. Josh Tomsheck is an experienced, nationally Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer who has successfully defended clients against a wide range of federal corruption charges.

Here’s why Josh Tomsheck is the best choice for your defense:

• Expertise in Federal Public Corruption Law: Tomsheck’s knowledge of 18 U.S.C. § 201, § 1951, § 1346, and other federal statutes allows him to develop strong defense strategies tailored to the specific facts of each case.
• Proven Track Record in Federal Court: Josh Tomsheck has extensive experience defending clients in federal court and has successfully secured reduced sentences, dismissals, and acquittals for his clients in public corruption cases.
• Personalized Defense Strategy: Every case is different, and Josh Tomsheck takes the time to understand the specific facts and circumstances of each client’s case. He develops a personalized defense strategy aimed at minimizing penalties and protecting your rights.
• Aggressive Defense: Known for his dedication and tenacity, Josh Tomsheck will fight for you at every stage of the case, from pre-trial motions to trial and sentencing. He is committed to securing the best possible outcome for his clients.

Contact Josh Tomsheck for a Consultation

If you or a loved one is facing federal public corruption charges, don’t wait to seek legal representation. Contact Josh Tomsheck at the Law Firm of Hofland & Tomsheck today for a consultation. With his experience, knowledge, and commitment to his clients, you can trust that your case is in capable hands.