What You Need to Know
If you’ve heard the term “RICO charges” in the news or from law enforcement, it’s likely in connection with serious allegations of organized or structured criminal activity. In Arizona, RICO cases are aggressively pursued by state prosecutors and can carry life-altering consequences. At Rideout Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys—based in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu—have experience defending clients facing these complex charges.
What Does RICO Stand For?
RICO stands for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Originally passed as a federal law in 1970 to combat organized crime syndicates, many states—including Arizona—have adopted their own versions of RICO statutes. The goal is to dismantle criminal enterprises by targeting not just individual offenses, but the larger pattern of criminal conduct.
What Constitutes a RICO Charge in Arizona?
Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-2312, a person may be charged with a RICO violation if they participate in an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity. That sounds complex—but here’s what it means:
- Enterprise: This could be any group, formal or informal—such as a gang, business, or group of individuals—working together for a common criminal purpose.
- Pattern of Racketeering: At least two acts of criminal behavior (called predicate offenses) within a 5-year period. These offenses can include drug trafficking, money laundering, extortion, fraud, identity theft, human smuggling, and more.
You don’t have to be the leader of a crime ring to be charged. Simply having a role in facilitating ongoing illegal activities could expose you to RICO liability.
Why RICO Charges Are So Serious
RICO cases are powerful tools for prosecutors because they allow them to charge multiple individuals in a single case, and seize property and assets believed to be connected to the criminal enterprise. Convictions often result in lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and permanent criminal records.
Moreover, Arizona’s RICO laws authorize civil forfeiture, meaning the government can try to seize your money, property, or even your home—without a criminal conviction—if they believe it’s tied to racketeering.
Defending Against RICO Allegations
A strong defense against RICO charges requires deep legal knowledge, trial experience, and a proactive strategy. At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys have represented clients in complex felony cases across Maricopa and Mohave County courts. As a former prosecutor, Managing Attorney Brad Rideout understands the aggressive tactics the state may use—and how to counter them.
We work to dismantle the prosecution’s narrative, challenge the definition of “enterprise” or “pattern,” and protect your rights from asset seizure or wrongful association.
Get Legal Help Today
If you or someone you love is being investigated or charged under Arizona’s RICO laws, you need immediate legal guidance. Contact Rideout Law Group for a confidential consultation. We serve clients in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, and throughout Arizona.
📞 Scottsdale Office: (480) 584-3328
📍 Address: 11111 N. Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
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