If you are found guilty of bank fraud, the consequences can be severe both financially and legally. Here's what you can expect:
- Legal Consequences: You will face criminal charges and may be subject to prosecution under both state and federal laws. The federal bank fraud statute, 18 U.S.C. Section 1344, is quite broad and can be applied to a wide range of fraudulent activities against financial institutions. A conviction can lead to significant penalties12.
- Penalties: Penalties for bank fraud can include imprisonment for up to 30 years and fines of up to $1 million. You may also be required to pay restitution to the bank or financial institution you defrauded31.
- Defenses: A common defense to bank fraud is lack of intent, meaning that you did not consciously plan to defraud the bank. Another defense is materiality, where the misrepresentation was so minor that it did not affect the bank's decision-making process3.
- Restitution: If convicted, you will likely be ordered to repay the amount of money you obtained through fraudulent means to the affected financial institution3.
- Professional Reputation: A conviction for bank fraud can significantly damage your professional reputation, making it harder to find employment in the financial industry4.
- Civil Lawsuits: The bank may also pursue civil lawsuits against you for damages, which can further impact your finances and reputation5.
In summary, serving a bank institution after being found guilty of fraud involves accepting the legal and financial consequences of your actions, which can be severe. It is crucial to take the matter seriously and consider the potential long-term impacts on your life and future opportunities.