U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald
Press Release

Sen. Fitzgerald, Rep. Hutton Introduce Money Laundering Legislation

Gives law enforcement more tools to combat human trafficking

By - May 29th, 2019 12:50 pm

[Madison, WI]  Today Senator Scott Fitzgerald and Representative Rob Hutton introduced comprehensive money laundering legislation to combat the growth of fraud schemes and human trafficking in Wisconsin.

Representative Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) released the following statement:

“With advances in technology, everybody knows someone who has been a victim of a fraud scheme. Whether it’s a business e-mail compromise, fake check scam, IRS gift card scheme, or call preying on seniors, this legislation gives law enforcement and prosecutors the tools they need to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators behind these schemes and ensure justice for the victims.”

Senator Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) added:

Sex trafficking is a serious problem facing our state. I’ve heard from concerned constituents in my district who have seen firsthand the tragic impact it can have on our communities. While victims are sometimes hesitant to come forward, this legislation gives the state another tool that will make it easier for law enforcement to go after bad actors who may also be involved in other crimes like human trafficking.”

Under current statutes, Wisconsin law enforcement has limited recourse to prosecute financial crimes with amounts that fall under the federal guidelines. This means that unless a criminal engages in over $200,000 worth of financial crimes there is little that can be done.

This legislation would remedy that loophole in Wisconsin law by creating a new money laundering statute. Under this bill, anyone who is convicted of money laundering could face up to a $25,000 fine and 12 ½ years in prison.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

Mentioned in This Press Release

Comments

  1. Duane says:

    First thing that pops into my mind when someone mentions money laundering,….. our current President and Deutsche Bank employee (and whistle blower) Tammy McFadden. God it would be nice to see that life long criminal behind bars. Do your job congress.

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