The crime of wire fraud comes in many different forms. For example, this crime can range from telemarketing fraud to spam schemes among others.
Breaking down the elements of wire fraud makes it easier to understand. As the name suggests, this crime involves some type of electronic communication. This could include the use of a telephone or the Internet.
Here are the four elements of wire fraud:
— The defendant participated in or created a scheme meant to defraud another party.
— The defendant took on this behavior with the idea of defrauding another.
— It was foreseeable that the defendant would use some type of wire communication to commit the crime.
— The defendant used wire communications to commit the crime.
One phrase that comes up in many instances of wire fraud is “interstate wire communications.” This includes, but is not limited to telephone calls, internet, and fax machines.
Most wire fraud schemes are based on one factor: a person stealing financial information for their own gain. One example of this is telemarketing fraud. More specifically, scammers contact people via phone with the request of wiring them money.
There are many details associated with wire fraud, some of which are difficult to understand. When a person is charged with this type of crime, they must realize that the punishment can be severe. They should also come to the conclusion that they may not have committed the crime they have been charged with.
Having knowledge of wire fraud law can be the difference between a serious punishment and putting this in the past sooner rather than later.
Source: FindLaw, “Wire Fraud,” accessed Oct. 22, 2015
