What Counts as a Gang Crime in Seattle, Washington?
Gang crimes in Seattle are classified by specific legal criteria regarding whether the acts of the crime were in association with or of benefit to a criminal street gang. The legal system or prosecutors usually identify these criminal offenses through proof of association with a known gang or gang activity. These identifiers can include evidence linking the accused to gang association, such as wearing gang colors, using known gang signs, or having tattoos associated with gangs.
Additionally, the legal system can also attempt to classify the accused as a gang member by their criminal history. If the accused has a pattern of crimes in the past that has been proven to be for the benefit of a gang or in association with a gang, this can potentially be used as evidence to qualify the offense as a gang crime. Common examples of what can be considered to be gang crimes in Seattle are:
- Violent Crimes: such as homicide or attempted homicide, assault, robbery, etc.
- Property Crimes: such as theft or vandalism for the benefit of a gang
- Drug Crimes: such as selling or trafficking illegal substances for the profit of a gang
- Weapons Offenses: Use of guns or firearms in the crime or trafficking of illegal firearms
For more information on gang crimes and their history, the FBI has a page on its official website that elaborates on gang crime history and its efforts against them. Being informed on gang crime activity and history could prove beneficial in your defense. If you are still unsure of what a gang crime is, call The Offices of Kevin Trombold today at 206-590-7667 for a FREE consultation.
Consequences of Being Affiliated with a Gang
In Seattle, a gang-related criminal offense can have severe consequences. Non-gang members accused of gang crimes could face harsher sentencing, even if the association with a gang is unfounded. Harsher sentencing can lead to longer prison time, additional fines, or unfair treatment if the accused is not truly associated with a street gang. This is why it is critical for the defendant’s case to make it clear to the court of law that they are not associated with a gang if unjustly accused of such. More specifically, Seattle law requires prosecutors to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a defendant willingly participated in or facilitated gang activity or committed crimes for the benefit of a gang. To do this, prosecutors will use different strategies to attempt to prove gang affiliation, such as introducing expert testimony on gang behavior.
Additionally, an accusation of gang involvement, even if untrue, could lead to unforeseen stressors for the defendant. It can impact their lives socially and economically, and can even affect their ability to get a job or continue their career path. It can even have consequences regarding their personal relationships because of the stigma regarding gang activity. As such, the accusation of gang affiliation goes much further than just the immediate effects of the case. It can make the defendant’s life much more challenging and stressful, causing life-altering consequences.
Common Defenses Against Gang Crime Charges
Defending yourself against a gang crime accusation can be quite challenging. If the defendant is unfairly accused of gang affiliation, there are multiple courses of action one can take. The most important action and the first one you should take is to make certain you understand the allegation levied against you. Gather all the information available to you and witnesses, if there are any. After you have collected and organized all of the information regarding your allegation, you can start forming a defense strategy. Most commonly, the defendant can challenge the evidence linking them to gang activity. The defendant can:
- Claim that there was a case of mistaken identity
- Offer an explanation that makes the association with the gang unfounded
- Challenge the reliability of the claim
- A lack of criminal history can also benefit the defendant
Lastly, consider hiring a criminal defense lawyer. A skilled defense attorney can help you form a good defense for your case. They have additional insight into the legal system and can offer reliable legal advice every step of the way.
A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Make A Difference
Being falsely associated with gang activity can have devastating effects on anyone’s life. Even if the accusation is untrue, it can create an undeserved bias against you in a court of law. This accusation can be life-changing, as it can affect your life in ways many people don’t expect. It can affect economic stability, job security, interpersonal relationships, and in other unforeseen ways.
Don’t let a false accusation add additional stress to an already challenging situation. Being informed about your legal options and having a good legal defense will improve your chances of success. The Law Offices of Kevin Trombold have skilled attorneys who will fight to give you the legal representation you deserve. Seek legal counsel today and call our office at 206-590-7667 to receive a FREE consultation, or visit our website for more information.
