Public corruption investigations can unfold for years before charges come.
Crimes that compromise the integrity of the judicial or executive branches are treated with high severity to maintain public trust in state institutions. Giving, offering, or agreeing to receive a bribe by an executive officer or a judicial officer is classified as a Class C2 felony. This exposes the corrupt actor to up to seven years in prison. Public corruption not only encompasses explicit bribery but also extends to the misuse of solicited funds and the intentional failure of elected officials to perform their statutory duties. The uniform Class C2 designation ensures that corruption is punished uniformly, regardless of the specific bureaucratic office the offender occupies.
Federal public corruption convictions carry extreme sentencing. A Hobbs Act extortion conviction is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison. Honest Services Mail or Wire Fraud carries up to 20 years in prison per count. Under the United States Sentencing Guidelines, public officials face massive enhancements that drastically increase their time in custody, as well as lifetime bans from holding office, forced restitution, and stripped pension rights.
Public corruption cases are often built on wiretaps, informants, and cooperating witnesses — all of which present defense opportunities. We challenge the reliability of cooperating witnesses, examine whether entrapment occurred, dispute the interpretation of recorded conversations, and argue that the defendant's actions fell within lawful discretion.
We defend public corruption cases in courts across northeastern Oklahoma, including state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions.
White collar charges demand a sophisticated defense strategy.
Tax evasion charges require a defense that understands both law and finance.
Money laundering charges add layers of complexity that demand specialized defense.
Bribery charges threaten your freedom and your career.
Mail fraud is a federal catchall that prosecutors use aggressively.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation. A former prosecutor will review your case and outline your best defense options.