Chicago Interstate Transport of Stolen Property Defense Attorney

Transporting stolen property across state lines can elevate a simple theft to a federal offense, subject to prosecution under the United States federal criminal code. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of the federal criminal charge of interstate transport of stolen property, covering relevant federal statutes, penalties, and defense strategies. Laws are subject to change, and you should consult our qualified attorney for legal advice.

Federal Statutes Governing Interstate Transport of Stolen Property

There are specific federal laws designed to address the issue of interstate transport of stolen property:

1. 18 U.S.C. § 2314 – Transportation of Stolen Goods, Securities, Moneys, and Fraudulent State Tax Stamps: This statute makes it illegal to knowingly transport in interstate or foreign commerce any goods, wares, merchandise, securities or money of the value of $5,000 or more, which have been stolen, converted, or taken by fraud.
2. 18 U.S.C. § 2315 – Sale or Receipt of Stolen Goods, Securities, Moneys, and Fraudulent State Tax Stamps: This is the counterpart to 18 U.S.C. § 2314, making it illegal to knowingly sell or possess stolen property that has crossed state lines.

Penalties for Interstate Transport of Stolen Property

Financial Penalties – Conviction under either statute could result in substantial fines, the magnitude of which depends on the circumstances surrounding the crime, including the value of the stolen property.

Imprisonment – Imprisonment is also a possibility, with penalties often ranging up to 10 years for each offense. However, the sentences can be even more severe if the defendant has a history of similar crimes or if the theft involves exceptionally high-value property.

Other Consequences – Apart from fines and imprisonment, other potential penalties include asset forfeiture, restitution to the victims, and a permanent criminal record that could significantly impact future employment opportunities and civil liberties.

Legal Process and Burden of Proof

1. Initial Investigation: Typically conducted by federal agencies like the FBI or the Secret Service, depending on the nature and scope of the stolen property.
2. Arrest and Charges: After gathering adequate evidence, the federal agency will either make an arrest or issue a warrant. This is followed by the U.S. Attorney filing federal charges.
3. Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury: A hearing may be held to determine if there’s enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial. Alternatively, a grand jury may be convened.
4. Trial: During the trial, the U.S. Attorney must prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
5. Sentencing: If convicted, the sentencing will consider the value of the stolen property, criminal history, and other factors to determine fines and imprisonment terms.

Interstate transport of stolen property is a serious federal offense governed by specific statutes and carrying severe penalties. Anyone facing such charges should immediately seek experienced legal representation to navigate the complex federal legal system.

Challenges in Prosecution

Prosecuting federal crimes of this nature poses several challenges:

1. Proving Knowledge: It’s not just enough to show that the defendant transported stolen property; it must also be proven that they knew the property was stolen.
2. Valuation of Property: Determining the value of stolen property can be challenging, especially when dealing with non-tangible items like digital goods or services.
3. Evidence Across Jurisdictions: Gathering evidence from multiple jurisdictions can be complicated and time-consuming.
4. Coordinating with State Authorities: Often, federal and state laws overlap in theft and property crimes, requiring seamless coordination between different law enforcement agencies.

Defenses Against Federal Charges

1. Lack of Knowledge: One common defense strategy involves showing that the defendant was not aware that the goods were stolen. Ignorance could serve as a viable defense if it can be convincingly proven.
2. Inadequate Evidence: The prosecution needs to provide sufficient evidence to secure a conviction, including showing that the property was stolen and that the defendant knowingly transported it across state lines.
3. Duress or Coercion: If the defendant can demonstrate that they were forced or threatened into transporting the stolen property, this could serve as a solid defense.
4. Constitutional Violations: Violations of constitutional rights, such as an illegal search and seizure, could result in the exclusion of evidence and potentially lead to the case being dismissed.

Given the severity and complexity of federal charges related to the interstate transport of stolen property, specialized legal defense is crucial. Attorneys with experience in federal criminal law are best equipped to navigate the intricate federal court system, negotiate potential plea bargains, and mount a robust defense strategy. Common tactics might include questioning the valuation of the stolen property, challenging the sufficiency of evidence, or disputing the claim that the defendant knowingly transported stolen goods.

Aggressive Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer with Decades of Experience

Over the past two decades, David L. Freidberg has gained a dearth of knowledge on the Illinois Compiled Statutes Criminal Code, evidence, rules of criminal procedure, and the U.S. Constitution. David L. Freidberg strives to combine his training, experience, skills, and passion for serving vulnerable communities to provide clients with unparalleled representation. To schedule a free consultation, contact The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll free at (800) 803-1442.