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4-1-9 Scams And Advance Fee Fraud Defense

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Kentucky 4-1-9 Scams & Advance Fee Fraud Charge Defense Lawyer

Defending Clients in State & Federal Charges

Many people who have email accounts have received a message promising a fabulous sum of money in return for assisting in the transfer of funds out of a country, usually Nigeria. Numerous businesses have also received faxes making similar offers. These proposals are part of a fraudulent scheme called a “4-1-9 scam”; it is named after the section of the Nigerian criminal code dealing with such fraud

Defense Attorney William M Butler Jr. has skillfully defended thousands of clients for over 35 years, compiling an impressive record of positive results, and he can defend you too.

If you have been charged in a 4-1-9 scam, call William M. Butler Jr. at 502-582-2020, an attorney experienced in the area of Internet crime, or contact him via email to schedule your initial confidential consultation.

Understanding 4-1-9 Scams

The scam begins with an unsolicited message from a sender who claims to have gotten your name by chance or because you were recommended as trustworthy. Either way, you are his last opportunity for help, and he is desperate for your assistance. He claims to be a family member or close associate of a former government official or important businessperson, perhaps someone who lost his life during political upheaval.

Before the sender’s associate died or became otherwise unavailable, he deposited a very large sum of money — sometimes $1 million and sometimes as much as $35 million — into a bank account in his home country. The problem is that the sender cannot get the money out of the country without your help. If you help to transfer the money, the sender promises, you will receive 15 to 50 percent of the total.

The sender asks you to provide your bank account information so that the money may be transferred to the U.S. He may also ask for letterhead stationery from your business.

Sometimes, the fraud ends here, as the sender loots the victim’s bank account. Often, however, this is just the beginning.

The 4-1-9 Scam Intensifies

If the scam continues, the victim may be sent official-looking documents regarding the transfer of the money. The victim is apprised of developments in the situation that require money from the victim. Government officials may need bribes, for instance, or bank fees and administrative costs may crop up. Once the sender finds a victim who is willing to pay, he will attempt to drain the source of all funds. These payments are called advance payments.

If the sender concludes that the victim’s funds have dried up, he may move on. If he determines that there is more money to be had, however, the victim may be asked to meet up with the sender, either in Nigeria or a neighboring country. This is purportedly to finalize the transfer of the cash.

People who have gone to meet up with the con artists have been swindled out of more money, and sometimes they have been kidnapped, assaulted or even killed. Other times, victims are convinced to buy a special, extremely expensive money-cleaning solution to process a suitcase of “money” that is actually stacks of black paper.

Understanding Advance Fee Fraud

Advance fee fraud occurs when a person or business demands payment upfront for services or goods that are promised but never delivered. These schemes may involve fictitious investments, loans, job offers, or legal settlements, and they exploit the victim’s trust and financial situation. When you are accused of 4-1-9 scams or advance fee fraud, it means you are facing serious criminal charges that could result in hefty fines, restitution, and even imprisonment.

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The Legal Consequences of 4-1-9 Scams & Advance Fee Fraud in Kentucky

Both 4-1-9 scams and advance fee fraud are felonies in Kentucky, and the penalties can be severe. Depending on the circumstances of the crime and whether the offense involved interstate or international communications, the charges may carry penalties that include:

  • Prison Time: Convictions for these types of fraud can lead to long prison sentences, potentially up to 20 years in federal prison if the offense involves large sums of money or multiple victims.
  • Fines: In addition to prison time, those convicted may face significant fines. Federal charges for wire fraud or mail fraud can carry fines of up to $250,000, while state penalties may be imposed based on the amount of money involved in the scheme.
  • Restitution: Victims of advance fee fraud are often entitled to restitution, which requires the defendant to pay back the money taken through fraudulent means. This can add to the financial burden of a conviction.
  • Loss of Reputation: Being accused of fraud can seriously damage your personal and professional reputation. You may face difficulty finding work, maintaining relationships, and operating within your community.

Defense Strategies for 4-1-9 Scams and Advance Fee Fraud Charges

Defense strategies for 4-1-9 scams and advance fee fraud charges often focus on challenging key elements of the case, as these allegations can sometimes arise from misunderstandings or miscommunications. A Kentucky 4-1-9 Scams & Advance Fee Fraud Charge Defense Lawyer can help navigate these complexities, employing strategies such as arguing lack of fraudulent intent, innocent misunderstanding, insufficient evidence, or entrapment 

If you have been charged with 4-1-9 scams or advance fee fraud in Kentucky, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. The potential penalties for these charges are significant, and the consequences of a conviction can affect every aspect of your life, from your financial well-being to your personal reputation..

How to Choose the Right Kentucky 4-1-9 Scams & Advance Fee Fraud Charge Defense Lawyer

Choosing the right legal representation is critical when facing charges related to 4-1-9 scams or advance fee fraud. When selecting a Kentucky 4-1-9 Scams & Advance Fee Fraud Charge Defense Lawyer, consider the following factors:

  • Experience in Fraud Defense: Look for an attorney with experience in defending clients against financial fraud charges, especially in cases involving wire fraud, mail fraud, or similar crimes.
  • Track Record of Success: Choose a lawyer who has a history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in similar cases, whether through trial victories or successful negotiations.
  • Personalized Attention: You want an attorney who will give your case the attention it deserves. Make sure the lawyer you choose is dedicated to understanding the specifics of your case and developing a tailored defense strategy.
  • Communication Skills: Your attorney should keep you informed throughout the legal process and provide clear explanations of your options and potential outcomes.
  • Reputation: A strong reputation in the legal community and with past clients can provide confidence in the attorney’s ability to handle your case effectively.

Secure Legal Counsel

For over 35 years, William Butler has skillfully defended thousands of clients, compiling an impressive record of positive results, and he can defend you too. 

For more information, please see our Case Results and Testimonials.

If you have been involved in a 4-1-9 scam, call William M. Butler Jr. at 502-582-2020, an attorney experienced in the area of Internet crime, or contact him via email to schedule your initial confidential consultation.

Minor criminal offenses

The least severe infractions are minor offenses, including traffic offenses. The terminology varies by state, but common terms for these offenses include petty offenses, infractions or violations of local law. Often the only penalty is a fine and sometimes the infraction may not even be considered a crime. Violations of local ordinances may be punishable by a fine or a short period of incarceration (maximum length of 90 days).

Secure Legal Counsel

It is important to keep in mind that crime classifications vary by jurisdiction and that this article provides general information. 

For immediate assistance, call Criminal Defense Attorney William M Butler, Jr., at 502-582-2020, or contact him via email or text to schedule your initial confidential consultation. He can help you understand the details, potential punishment, and ramifications of a criminal charge in your jurisdiction.

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