Handling the proceeds of crime

Legal defence in cases of handling proceeds of crime

Handling proceeds of crime (Article 270 of the Criminal Code) is punishable by imprisonment from 1 to 5 years or a fine. It concerns receiving, acquiring, transforming or facilitating disposal of property where the person knew or foresaw from the specific circumstances that it originated from a criminal act, even without knowing that act’s exact nature. No separate profit motive is required. The penalty cannot exceed that prescribed for the principal offender’s act, and handling by a family member is not punishable. The acquisition conditions and information available to the buyer are essential to the defence.

Knowledge of origin and defence strategies

The price, declared origin, documents, serial numbers and seller’s messages help establish knowledge or foresight of criminal origin. Absence of erased serial numbers does not alone exclude the offence, and the prosecution must prove culpability from specific circumstances, not mere possession.
Returning property and cooperating are relevant but do not erase intent present at acquisition. A lawyer checks when the origin became known, any family-based exemption from punishment and the distinction from complicity, seeking a favourable outcome based on evidence and statutory conditions.

Urgent legal assistance in Focșani and Vrancea county

In Vrancea County, handling cases are often linked to theft, robbery or smuggling, with property later found in third parties’ possession who claim to be good-faith buyers. The law office of Lawyer Basuc Cosmin in Focșani provides specialist legal assistance in such criminal cases. We assist during interviews, helping you explain the acquisition context accurately, request the evidence needed to establish the truth and provide firm representation before Focșani District Court or the Vrancea Tribunal, working to rebut allegations and protect your reputation and freedom.