Felony Drug Charges and Money Laundering in Arizona

As Phoenix criminal lawyers, we often see money laundering charges added to felony drug charges in Arizona, especially relating to drug trafficking or sales. Although you may think of money laundering only as a high-end, “white collar” crime committed only by CEOs and other corporate professionals, the truth is that money laundering charges can accompany a wide range of offenses that involve any kind of exchange of money or services.

What Is Money Laundering in Arizona?

In Arizona and elsewhere, money laundering is basically the process of disguising the source of money obtained through illegal means or attempting to make money obtained illegally appear to be legitimate. So, for example, it would be considered money laundering if you pay someone with money you obtained illegally, or even if you attempt to deposit that money to a bank account.

How Does Money Laundering Relate to Felony Drug Charges in Arizona?

If you have been charged with a drug crime or have been involved with someone you knew to be making money from selling or transporting drugs, you could be charged with money laundering if:

• You attempt to deposit cash from illegal drugs in your bank account or deposit the cash in a bank account for another person. 
• You attempt to pay another person with the proceeds from criminal drug activity or if you accept payment from someone who was engaged in illegal activity. 
• You otherwise attempt to transfer money made from illegal drugs into a legitimate source.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Charged with Money Laundering after a Phoenix Drug Arrest?

If you have been arrested for money laundering related to a drug arrest, it is important to speak with an experienced Phoenix drug lawyer as soon as possible to explain your rights and start building a strong case in your defense. Our Phoenix criminal lawyers will work closely with you on your case and may be able to have the charges against you dropped or reduced. If you need help, reach out to us today at 1-888-929-5292, or simply fill out the confidential contact form on this page.

For more information about how a Phoenix drug lawyer may be able to help you or a loved one, please also request your completely FREE copy of our helpful book, Arizona Criminal Law – What You Must Know.