Wire fraud might sound like a technical crime—but make no mistake: it’s one of the most powerful tools in the federal government’s white-collar crime arsenal. If you’ve been contacted by investigators, received a target letter, or been charged with wire fraud in California, it’s critical to understand what’s at stake—and how to respond.
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we’ve successfully defended clients throughout Southern California against serious federal fraud charges. Here’s what you need to know about wire fraud and how to protect your rights from the start.
What Is Wire Fraud?
Under 18 U.S.C. §1343, wire fraud involves:
- A scheme to defraud another of money, property, or honest services,
- Carried out using interstate wire communications, such as phone calls, emails, texts, or bank transfers.
Unlike some fraud charges that apply only in specific industries (e.g., securities fraud or healthcare fraud), wire fraud is broad and flexible—and that’s exactly why prosecutors use it so often. If you’ve ever used a phone, email, or bank transfer in connection with an allegedly deceptive scheme, you could be charged.
Common Examples of Wire Fraud Cases
Federal prosecutors bring wire fraud charges in a wide range of situations, including:
- Business disputes involving alleged misrepresentation or misuse of funds
- Online sales scams or investment schemes
- PPP loan or COVID relief fraud
- Romance or inheritance scams
- Vendor invoice or payroll fraud
- Internal employee theft involving electronic records or transfers
It’s also commonly added on top of other white-collar charges like conspiracy, tax fraud, or identity theft.
Why Wire Fraud Is So Serious
Wire fraud is a federal felony punishable by:
- Up to 20 years in federal prison
- Hefty fines and restitution
- Permanent damage to your professional reputation
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
If the alleged fraud involved a financial institution or federal disaster relief funds, the penalty can increase to 30 years in prison and fines up to $1 million.
How the Government Builds a Wire Fraud Case
Federal investigators (often from the FBI, IRS, or DOJ) spend months or even years building wire fraud cases. They typically rely on:
- Financial records and bank statements
- Email and text message transcripts
- Wire transfer and payment platform data
- Testimony from alleged victims, partners, or employees
- Subpoenas to third parties like banks, ISPs, and accounting firms
By the time you learn you’re under investigation, prosecutors may already have a detailed timeline and documentary trail. That’s why early legal intervention is crucial.
Possible Defense Strategies for Wire Fraud
Every case is unique, but effective defenses may include:
- Lack of intent: Honest mistakes, poor communication, or failed business plans are not crimes.
- No actual fraud: The government must prove a deliberate scheme—not just bad judgment or financial loss.
- Insufficient evidence: Much of the case may be circumstantial or based on interpretation.
- Entrapment: In some cases, aggressive undercover tactics may violate your rights.
- Statute of limitations: The government only has a limited time to file charges.
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we analyze every piece of evidence, identify weak points in the government’s case, and build a strategy that fits your specific situation.
Don’t Wait—Federal Charges Move Fast
If you’re facing a federal wire fraud charge—or even suspect you’re under investigation—time is not on your side. The earlier you consult with experienced counsel, the more options you may have to avoid indictment, challenge evidence, or negotiate a favorable outcome.
Our team at Simmons Wagner, LLP includes former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built—and how to fight back.
Call Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 today to schedule a confidential consultation. When your freedom, career, and future are on the line, you need a legal team that knows the system—and knows how to win.