Ohio White Collar Crime Bill Passes House Of Representatives
February 1, 2012
Thursday, it was announced that the Ohio House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 66, and the Bill is now awaiting Ohio Governor John Kasich to sign it into law. If approved by Kasich, the Bill would create a system for Ohio citizens and public employees to anonymously report fraud, waste and abuse of tax dollars.
The Bill will make reporting of illegal business practices easier with the establishment of a toll-free hot line, a Web tool, and a mailbox, where “whistleblowers” can anonymously report suspected fraud by any public office or public official. The Ohio Fraud Reporting System will be maintained by the Ohio Auditor of State and is intended to reduce white collar crimes such as fraud, tax evasion, embezzlement, and forgery.
Although penalties vary depending on the nature of the offense, conviction for a white collar crime can result in imprisonment, fines, restitution, and/or community service. Penalties in federal cases are generally more severe, as these offenses typically involve complex operations and schemes.
The attorneys of DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder have extensive experience handling white collar crimes. If you are facing criminal charges for a white collar crime, or have questions regarding Ohio’s white collar criminal law, a knowledgeable Criminal Attorney can provide you with the answers you need. For legal advice or information, contact the experienced Criminal Attorneys of DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today.