Smuggling cigarettes or tobacco across state lines is a violation of federal law, 18 U.S.C. § 2342. Individuals who are charged with tobacco smuggling face 3 to 5 years in prison per count, but can also be charged with accompanying counts, such as money laundering, wire fraud, mail fraud, or tax fraud. Money laundering, in particular, is a very serious charge and is punishable for up to 20 years per count. The attorneys at Dysart Willis regularly represent defendants charged with tobacco smuggling and cigarette trafficking between North Carolina and other states, as well as other federal criminal charges.

Cigarette and tobacco smuggling is fairly common in North Carolina, where tobacco farming is prevalent. Large quantities of cigarettes can be purchased from wholesale outlets in North Carolina (a low-tax state) and then transported to high-tax states such as New York and New Jersey, where they are sold illegally by retailers who have not paid the full tax. Thus, conspirators are able to increase their profit by avoiding tax in the state where the cigarettes are ultimately sold. Prosecutions of tobacco and cigarette smuggling conspiracy are on the rise in federal district courts in North Carolina, and the lawyers at Dysart Willis regularly handle cases like these. Our team of lawyers includes Jim Kurosad, a former FBI agent and AUSA. As a former federal prosecutor and investigator, Mr. Kurosad has experience on both sides of the courtroom. This gives our attorneys insight and expertise in the defense of these cases.

If you are accused of cigarette or tobacco smuggling, or believe you are being investigated, our attorneys have the background and experience to defend your case. Call our Triangle-based law firm today at (919) 747-8380 to discuss your matter with an attorney at Dysart Willis.

We are pleased to announce that DYSART WILLIS is joining MAYNARD NEXSEN. As we combine firms, we are expanding our capabilities & reach to 24 offices across the country. Read our announcement here & learn more about Maynard Nexsen at MAYNARDNEXSEN.COM

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