Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: RICO Act
Jul 21, 2021
Dive into the fascinating world of the RICO Act and discover how it revolutionized the fight against organized crime. Explore its origins, applications in white-collar crimes, and the challenges of prosecuting powerful offenders. Learn about the intricate process required to prove criminal activity patterns and the surprising cases where RICO has been applied, like the Catholic Church scandal. This entertaining conversation blends legal insights with humor, providing a unique look at a crucial tool in law enforcement.
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RICO Act Misconceptions
- The RICO Act, used to prosecute mobsters like John Gotti, is widely recognized but poorly understood.
- It targets leaders of criminal enterprises, not just individual perpetrators.
Racketeering Defined
- Racketeering involves managing an enterprise with a pattern of illegal activities.
- The RICO Act targets high-level figures who direct these operations, not just those who carry them out.
Gotti's Downfall
- John Gotti, the "Teflon Don," was convicted under the RICO Act thanks to an underboss's testimony and wiretaps.
- Gotti's funeral was notably unattended by other New York crime families.