Money Laundering Federal Charges in Houston
Money laundering is one of the most complex and heavily investigated federal crimes prosecuted in the United States. These cases often involve large-scale financial transactions, multi-agency investigations, and allegations of concealing the source of criminal proceeds. While some cases involve sophisticated international operations, others arise from everyday business or personal transactions that draw unwanted attention from federal authorities.
In Houston, money laundering cases are frequently investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation Division, and Homeland Security Investigations. Because these offenses often intersect with other alleged crimes—such as drug trafficking, wire fraud, healthcare fraud, or tax evasion—they are aggressively prosecuted in federal court. Even a single transaction that appears to conceal or disguise the origin of funds can lead to serious federal charges.
Vinas & Graham, PLLC, provides insight into how federal money laundering charges work, what penalties defendants face, and why having experienced legal representation is critical from the start of an investigation.
What Is Money Laundering Under Federal Law?
Money laundering is defined under two primary federal statutes. Both laws prohibit financial transactions involving proceeds from unlawful activity, but they differ slightly in scope and intent.
Federal Statute 18 U.S.C. § 1956
It is a crime to knowingly conduct or attempt to conduct a financial transaction with proceeds from specified unlawful activity with the intent to:
- Conceal or disguise the nature, source, ownership, or control of the funds
- Promote further unlawful activity
- Avoid reporting requirements or tax obligations
Federal Statute 18 U.S.C. § 1957
It is illegal to knowingly engage in a monetary transaction involving criminally derived property worth more than $10,000. The prosecution does not need to prove intent to conceal, only that the funds were derived from illegal activity and knowingly used in a financial transaction.
Money laundering can take many forms, including:
- Transferring funds through multiple accounts to hide their source
- Using shell companies or legitimate businesses to disguise proceeds
- Purchasing real estate, vehicles, or luxury goods with illicit funds
- Structuring deposits to avoid federal reporting thresholds
- Converting cash into cryptocurrency or foreign currency to conceal ownership
Because most money laundering cases are tied to other underlying crimes, defendants often face multiple charges in the same indictment, increasing the stakes and complexity of the defense.
Penalties for Federal Money Laundering
The penalties for money laundering are severe, reflecting the government’s interest in deterring financial crimes that conceal illegal profits. Sentencing depends on the amount of money involved, the underlying criminal activity, and whether the defendant played a leading or minor role.
Under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, a conviction can result in:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- Fines up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved, whichever is greater
- Forfeiture of assets connected to the laundering scheme
Under 18 U.S.C. § 1957, penalties can include:
- Up to 10 years in federal prison
- Substantial fines and forfeiture orders
In addition to prison time and fines, those convicted may face:
- Restitution and loss of assets
- Permanent damage to financial and professional reputations
- Difficulty obtaining employment, loans, or housing
- Immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens
Because money laundering is often linked to other federal offenses, sentences can be compounded when multiple counts are involved. Federal sentencing guidelines take into account the total value of the transactions, use of sophisticated means, and whether the conduct involved international transfers or multiple participants.
Why You Need a Lawyer When Facing Federal Money Laundering Charges
Money laundering cases are built through extensive paper trails, bank records, and electronic data. The prosecution’s case often relies on circumstantial evidence suggesting intent to conceal the origins of funds. Without proper legal defense, innocent financial activity can be misinterpreted as evidence of criminal conduct.
A defense attorney experienced in federal financial crimes can identify weaknesses in the government’s case, including:
- Lack of proof that the money came from illegal activity
- Absence of intent to conceal or promote criminal conduct
- Violations of constitutional rights during searches or seizures
- Overreach in asset forfeiture proceedings
- Reliance on unreliable cooperating witnesses or incomplete records
Early legal intervention is especially critical. Once a federal investigation begins, prosecutors may seek to freeze bank accounts, seize property, or pressure individuals to cooperate. Having counsel involved at this stage can prevent missteps that harm the defense or lead to self-incrimination.
Vinas & Graham, PLLC, Defends Clients Facing Federal Money Laundering Charges
Money laundering investigations often span months or years before formal charges are filed. By the time an indictment is issued, federal agents have typically gathered extensive documentation and financial data. This makes it essential to work with attorneys who understand both the financial and legal complexities of these cases.
At Vinas & Graham, PLLC, attorneys Joe Vinas and Spence Graham bring over 40 years of combined experience in state and federal criminal law. As former felony chief prosecutors, they understand how federal investigations are conducted, what evidence prosecutors rely on, and how to challenge the government’s narrative effectively.
The firm works closely with clients to review financial records, analyze government evidence, and develop strategic defenses aimed at protecting their freedom and future. Whether the case involves alleged laundering tied to business operations, investment activity, or cash transactions, Vinas & Graham, PLLC, provides the knowledge and skill necessary to defend against these serious accusations.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with federal money laundering in Houston, contact Vinas & Graham, PLLC, today to discuss your case and begin preparing a strong defense.
