If More Than One Person is Involved in a Crime, Conspiracy Charges are Possible
If you are facing a conspiracy charge in Tulsa, state law governs what is and is not a crime. In terms of criminal elements, or what the state must prove, a conspiracy crime charge first requires two or more people conspiring. From here, the conspiracy must involve one of the following:
- the commission of a crime;
- falsely having someone charged for a crime;
- pursuing a baseless lawsuit;
- defrauding another person of property;
- obstructing justice; or
- injuring public health.
Other situations also can create a conspiracy. If two or more people outside of Oklahoma conspire to commit an act against the state, it is also a felony.
No conspiracy can exist without completion of an act. For example, if two people agree to commit a crime and do nothing else, there is no conspiracy. At least one of those involved must complete an actual act that goes toward the crime.
Conspiracy Classification And Punishment
A conspiracy charge is classified by the nature of the crime being planned. Conspiracies are charged as misdemeanors, unless the act involved is a felony. In that case, it is its own felony charge with up to $5,000 in fines and a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Other penalties are set out for specific types of conspiracies.
If the crime planned is directed against the state, a school district, or city, the penalties are stiffer. A judge can require up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $25,000, or both.
Conspiring to commit a pattern of offenses brings the same $25,000 maximum fine, but only up to two years in state prison.
If Charged with a Conspiracy Crime, Speak to a Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorney
Conspiracy charges can involve complicated arguments, and you should consult with a Tulsa criminal defense attorney to explore your options. For a initial and confidential consultation, call Seventh Street Law Firm at 918-932-2777.