Facing Fraud Charges in Florida After Hurricane Helene
After Hurricane Helene, the federal government warned affected residents to be wary of various scams – noting that flooding survivors are prime targets for various con artists. What happens if you were accused of participating in one of these fraudulent schemes? How can you avoid serious federal charges for fraud in Fort Myers? These are questions you might want to ask an experienced Fort Myers fraud attorney.
Common Fraud Offenses After Hurricanes in Florida
In September of 2024, federal officials listed several common scams perpetrated by criminals after hurricanes and weather emergencies.
In particular, officials warned of “fake contractors” who appear on your doorstep and offer to provide repairs or construction services. Sometimes, these individuals “grossly overcharge” residents for these services – and they often fail to repair anything at all. Sometimes, these scam artists target insurance money – leaving residents unable to carry out real repairs in the future.
However, many contractors are legitimate – and it is all too easy to face false fraud charges. Sometimes, residents simply become impatient with the damage in their homes – and they assume that they have been scammed. However, the construction contractor could simply be waiting for supplies. Often construction materials are difficult to come by after a major storm – especially when roads have been flooded.
Federal officials also warn against “tree removal scams.” Another common fraud involves water treatment. A businessperson appears, offers to conduct a free water test, and then informs the resident that their water supply is tainted. Often, this is simply a scam to sell water filters. Of course, sometimes the supply really has been tainted – and it is easy to face these allegations when you are genuinely trying to help.
Price gouging is another common accusation that gets hurled around after a major storm. However, this type of “fraud” can be difficult to prove – and the cost of doing business genuinely increases during an emergency.
Finally, so-called “fake charities” are relatively common after these disasters. You could face serious charges for accepting donations – even if you were merely trying to organize funds to help your community. Generally speaking, FEMA likes to control all of these donations – and they may take action against any unsolicited charities or community funds. Generally speaking, residents should consider donating and organizing funds through churches. These organizations are not subject to the same rules, and therefore legal issues are less likely.
Can a Defense Lawyer in Fort Myers Help With Federal Fraud Charges?
If you are facing fraud charges after Hurricane Helene, choose a defense lawyer in Fort Myers who has specific experience with federal offenses. The consequences may be very severe, and criminal courts might have little sympathy for someone accused of preying on hurricane survivors. That being said, an experienced defense attorney can help you paint yourself in the best possible light as you fight these charges. Contact The Foley & Wilson Law Firm today to get started with an effective defense strategy.
Sources:
usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/10/02/hurricane-helene-fraud-scams-theft/75459635007/
tallahassee.com/story/news/hurricane/2024/09/28/hurricane-helene-avoid-scams/75415221007/
