What Is the Penalty for Being a “Money Mule” in Florida?

Most Florida residents are familiar with the term “drug mule,” but the term “money mule” appears less often. Acting as a money mule can lead to strict penalties in Florida – especially as numerous law enforcement agencies vow to crack down on this criminal behavior. If you have been accused of being a money mule in Florida, you should be aware of the specific laws that apply to your situation – and the potential penalties.

What Charges Will I Face for Being a Money Mule in Florida? 

You may face numerous charges after being caught acting as a money mule in Florida. One obvious example is money laundering or conspiracy to launder funds. Other possibilities include mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, and identity theft. Note that it is also a crime to carry more than $10,000 in undeclared cash across the United States border. Any transfers of large sums across the border are subject to investigations by the authorities, and this could lead to additional charges. If you want to move more than $10,000 across the US border, it is crucial that you declare these funds before attempting to cross.

Both State and federal laws apply to money mule activities. If you are involved in transfers of over $10,000 in Florida and you fail to report these transactions, you could face penalties under the Florida Money Laundering Act. Note that this law specifically identifies cryptocurrency in its wording. Those involved in the transfer of larger sums face even more serious penalties – especially if the funds are linked to unlawful activities.

A recent example occurred in May of 2024 in Fort Lauderdale, when a woman was taken into custody for acting as a money mule for romance scammers. This individual apparently moved more than $2 million in criminal proceeds to a bank account in Ghana. She was subsequently charged with money laundering, transacting in criminal proceeds, and illegal money remitting. If convicted on all counts, she faces many decades in prison. At the same time, thousands of other money mules were taken into custody during a nationwide crackdown.

Law Enforcement Organizations Vow to Take Down Money Mules 

In May of 2024, the Department of Justice announced a nationwide effort to crack down on money mules. Participating organizations include the FBI, the Secret Service, and others. The Justice Department warned average residents that authorities will have little patience for those involved in money mule activities, instructing them to refuse participation in such schemes.

Work With a Money Laundering Defense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale 

Whether you’re being accused of money laundering, transporting large sums across the border, or any other related offense, it makes sense to contact a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. With help from Haber & Blank, Attorneys at Law, you can fight for your rights with confidence. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective defense strategy.

Sources: 

fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/money-mules#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20a%20 money,laundering%2C%20and%20aggravated%20identity%20theft.

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0896/0896.html

miaminewtimes.com/news/florida-romance-scam-bust-woman-charged-with-laundering-fraud-funds-19867208

justice.gov/usao-sdfl/pr/us-attorneys-office-and-law-enforcement-partners-take-action-against-money-mules-order