Money laundering is a serious offense to be charged with and will result in a felony conviction if you’re found guilty at trial.
The sequence of events leading up to an arrest for money laundering is often complex and may even have taken place over a number of years, but the prosecution still has to prove its case.
There are three key elements that the prosecution must prove
Firstly, it must be proven that you are aware the money in question came from an illegal origin. It’s not necessary to show that you knew all the details of the crime, simply that you knew that the money was the proceeds of a crime.
Secondly, it must be proven that you were involved in a financial transaction with this money. This can be really any type of financial transaction. Lastly, it must be shown that you participated in the three stages of money laundering which are transfer, layering and implementation.
What kind of evidence will the prosecution rely on?
Much of the evidence is likely to be circumstantial and it can be complex. Examples include:
- Testimony evidence from other parties involved in the matter that implicates you
- Expert evidence regarding complex financial transactions
- Character witnesses to attest to your truthfulness and honesty
- Your own evidence that supports your position
- Surveillance footage that may show your actions
To defend the case against you it’s important, therefore, to be able to show to the court that you had no knowledge of the source of funds and was unaware that it came from an illegal activity.
If you are facing money laundering charges, it’s essential that you get some help from a legal professional with experience in defending felony offenses.