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Examples of RICO Case Prosecutions in NJ

Criminal charges brought under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, commonly known as RICO, primarily involve organized crime and criminal enterprises. While RICO charges are primarily federal, New Jersey state law also has RICO statutes.

RICO charges often deal with organized crime. Most people might be familiar with famous RICO cases involving “the mob.” Although the heyday of the mob is past, organized crime still exists, and numerous RICO cases have been brought in New Jersey in recent years. Below are recent examples of RICO prosecutions in the state, along with information on what constitutes a RICO case.

If you are charged, call our NJ white-collar crime defense lawyers with the Law Offices of John J. Zarych at (609) 616-4956 and ask for a free case review.

Recent Rico Cases Prosecuted in NJ

People often associate RICO cases with famous mob cases of the past. What many people do not realize is that RICO cases continue to crop up in New Jersey. Below are a few examples of recent RICO cases.

“Little Joe” Perna

In 2025, the Attorney General of New Jersey, Matthew Platkin, announced RICO charges against 14 people, including Joseph “Little Joe” Perna of Fairfield, NJ. Perna is believed to have been a major player in a large-scale illegal gambling operation, directing numerous subordinates, including several family members, in the criminal scheme.

It is believed that between 2022 and 2024, the enterprise led by Perna transferred about $2 million in gambling transactions.

The Paterson “100k” Gang Case

Also in 2025, 11 people were indicted under RICO statutes for racketeering. The group is believed to be involved in 3 shootings, a murder, 2 robberies, bank fraud, drug trafficking, and an assortment of other crimes.

The group was based in Paterson, NJ, and was known as “100k.” They are believed to have committed numerous crimes, including many violent crimes, in furtherance of the gang and organized crime.

Racketeering Charges for 39 People

Another case from 2025 involves racketeering charges. No less than 39 people have been charged with crimes related to racketeering, money laundering, gambling, and related offenses. Among those charged is a Prospect Park city councilman and several members of the Lucchese Crime Family.

Several of these individuals are linked to the case involving “Little Joe” Perns described above. The crimes revolved primarily around illegal gambling, including illegal poker clubs and online sportsbooks.

Pharmaceutical Fraud Case

Not every RICO case revolves around things like gambling, illegal betting, or violent crimes. In 2022, two owners of a New Jersey pharmaceutical marketing company admitted to their roles in a compounded medication health care fraud scheme worth about $38 million.

The pair admitted to exploiting the way in which health insurance plans processed and paid for compound medications, which are a sort of customized drug. They cost several health insurance plans tens of millions of dollars over a span of about 2 years.

What Constitutes a RICO Case?

A good way to understand what constitutes a RICO case is to review examples of prosecuted cases and characteristic common to those charged.

Racketeering Defined

RICO cases often involve what is known as “racketeering.” Racketeering can be hard to pin down because it may involve any number of crimes. Anything from illegal gambling to murder may be part of racketeering. Whatever the crimes are, they must be performed in furtherance of some criminal organization or enterprise.

Put another way, racketeering involves committing crimes to further a criminal business. Racketeering is commonly connected to gangs, organized crime families, and groups many would think of as “the mob.”

Our NJ white-collar crime defense lawyers may be able to challenge RICO charges if prosecutors lack sufficient evidence linking the alleged crimes to a larger criminal enterprise.

Patterns of Criminal Activity

A key characteristic of RICO cases is a pattern of criminal activity. Committing just one or even two crimes may not be considered racketeering or grounds for RICO charges. However, when authorities have evidence that suspects have committed multiple crimes as part of a scheme of organized crime, RICO charges may apply.

Criminal Enterprise

Perhaps one of the most important factors in a RICO case is the existence of a criminal business or enterprise. Racketeering involves committing crimes for the profit and benefit of a larger criminal enterprise.

This may be something like an illegal gambling or sports betting business. It might instead involve illegal drug trafficking. The business itself might even appear legitimate from the outside, but criminal activity is a key part of how members conduct business.

FAQs About RICO Cases in NJ

What Does a RICO Case Usually Entail?

RICO cases typically involve racketeering, which is committing various crimes in furtherance of a criminal business, organization, or enterprise. Many RICO cases involve large-scale criminal operations and crimes ranging from white-collar fraud to violent felonies.

Are RICO Crimes Serious Felonies?

Generally, yes. While New Jersey does not use legal terms “felony” or misdemeanor,” at the federal level, RICO cases typically involve serious felonies. These felonies may involve white-collar offense like money laundering or fraud and violent crimes like robbery and murder.

Can Someone Go to Jail if Convicted of RICO Crimes?

Yes. RICO cases often involve serious criminal charges and carry potentially harsh prison terms. At the federal level, a single RICO count carries a prison term of up to 20 years.

What Should You Do if You Are Being Investigated for RICO Crimes?

If you believe you are being investigated in relation to RICO charges, stay calm and call an experienced attorney. It may be best to discuss the matter with your lawyer so they can help you anticipate what the police and prosecutors may do and build a defense accordingly.

Ask Our NJ White-Collar Crimes Defense Attorneys for Legal Help Now

If you are charged, call our NJ white-collar crime defense lawyers with the Law Offices of John J. Zarych at (609) 616-4956 and ask for a free case review.

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