Sen. Scott Fitzgerald (608) 266-5660
Rep. Rob Hutton (608) 267-9836
Gives law enforcement more tools to combat human trafficking
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.
