A former concert promoter who was responsible for staging major musical acts including Aerosmith, Elton John and the Rolling Stones allegedly ran his company as a profitable fraud scheme, federal prosecutors argued in a hearing last month.
During the course of the hearing, prosecutors argued that the man, who stands accused of defrauding as many as 3,000 investors and repeatedly lying to conceal steep losses during a nine-year period between 1996 and 2005, should be sentenced to at least 17 years in prison.
However, the defense contested that, despite allegations of fraud, the defendant never intended to defraud any of his investors. Instead, he was invested in turning around the company’s fortune and building a company of great value. Attorneys for the defendant suggested a far more lenient sentence – no more than six years in prison.
Despite calls from the defense for a reduced sentence, former investors tied to the defendant supported the prosecution’s request for a strict, lengthy sentence.
Fraud Defense in California
When someone has been charged with a fraud crime, it means that they are accused of some sort of theft through misrepresentation or other deceptive methods. Although many fraud cases involve individuals who knowingly misrepresented themselves for capital gain, there are cases where fraud is accidental.
Regardless of the intention of the alleged offender, being charged with the crime of fraud is not something to take lightly.
There are several different types of incidents that can qualify as a fraudulent crime. The most common types of fraudulent offenses are:
- Identity theft
- Pigeon drop schemes
- Ponzi schemes
- Mail fraud
Depending on the situation, fraudulent behavior can lead to either a misdemeanor or felony charge. Typically, this is determined based on the value of the stolen assets.
If you or someone you know have been accused of, or charged with, a fraudulent crime, it is imperative that you enlist the assistance of a qualified defense attorney. Only an attorney specializing in fraud defense can evaluate your case and devise a defense strategy that yields the best possible result for your individual situation.
Fraud Defense Attorneys in Los Angeles
For those residing in Southern California, including the City of Los Angeles, the attorneys at Gurovich, Berk & Associates can provide the wise legal guidance necessary when facing criminal charges, including those related to fraud.
Our team of criminal defense attorneys provides a cutting-edge, client-centered approach to each and every case we handle, and are prepared to go above and beyond for you and your defense. No matter what the circumstances are surrounding your fraud charges, our firm has the skills and legal acumen necessary to see your claim through to a successful end.
Let our attorneys assist you in your defense. To schedule a complimentary initial consultation with one of our attorneys, contact the law offices of Gurovich, Berk & Associates today at (213) 385-1555.