A recent incident involving the illegal arrest of a retired bi-racial professional golfer in New York highlights the use of racial profiling as a law enforcement approach to curbing credit card fraud in the United States.
Problem of Racial Profiling
Racial profiling is the practice of targeting persons as suspects of crimes such as credit card fraud, based on the person’s race, ethnicity, or skin color. In the past months, two of the country’s largest retailers and local police departments have been accused of this practice after certain individuals, including a Hollywood actor and a billionaire’s wife, were held after making expensive purchases using credit cards.
Shops in Washington D.C. as well are reportedly implementing racial profiling, usually following certain customers while shopping and accusing some of credit card fraud after making some expensive purchases. In the case of the billionaire’s wife from Detroit, store security premised their charge of credit card fraud on a belief that the exclusive credit card could not have been hers.
This practice can have unjust consequences to the detriment of innocent persons who may be subjected to harassment, use of force during arrest, and illegal searches and seizures. Worse, without proper legal advice and representation, an accused can be punished for a crime they did not commit.
Credit Card Fraud in D.C.
The Code of the District of Columbia punishes credit card fraud with a fine and imprisonment. Anyone convicted of this crime may suffer jail time of up to 10 years, depending on the value of the property or services obtained or paid using the credit card.
Importance of Credit Card Defense Attorney
Being charged with credit card fraud is a serious matter and should not be treated lightly. If you are held and questioned for alleged credit card fraud, it’s important to insist on your right to speak with your criminal defense attorney first. Avoid making statements or answering questions without an attorney who can assess your situation, weigh the evidence against you, and determine available defenses in your case.
In Maryland and Washington, D.C., the attorneys at the law firm of Lotze Mosley, LLP, have years of criminal defense experience, and have helped clients raise appropriate defenses in charges of credit card fraud and other crimes. We will aggressively investigate your case, negotiate a favorable resolution for your case, or if necessary, pursue trial and secure a positive jury verdict for you.
Your call today to arrange an initial consultation is welcome, at (202) 393-0535.
