Accused of Online Theft? I Can Help.
With the increased use of computers to commit identity theft and similar crimes, governments are devoting greater resources to prosecuting computer fraud. If you've been accused of using false pretenses to obtain money or property online, you could be charged with this crime.
I'm attorney Lance D. Gardner. Based in Fairfax, Virginia, I have more than 25 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer. If you've been charged with computer fraud or any computer-related theft offense, don't hesitate to contact me to schedule a free consultation.
Did the Police Use Legal Investigation Methods?
Many people believe that their online activities are anonymous and untraceable. In fact, public servers keep records of the data flowing through them, and the police can and will obtain this information either voluntarily or by subpoena if they have reason to suspect computer fraud.
The law enforcement agencies in Northern Virginia — as well as the FBI — have become increasingly sophisticated about detecting and tracing computer fraud.
Whether these police methods are constitutional is another matter. If you have been arrested for computer fraud, I will carefully examine police evidence-gathering methods to determine whether they had probable cause to justify search and seizure of your computer records.
What Are the Potential Consequences of Computer Fraud?
Identity theft, credit card fraud and other forms of computer fraud are considered larceny under Virginia law, which means that if you are accused of stealing $200 or more by these methods, you will be charged with a felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
In some cases, there are additional Virginia and federal laws that can increase the penalties for computer fraud. If you've been charged with any computer-related property crime, let me help you today; contact my office right away to schedule a consultation.
