Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) is a U.S. law designed to combat organized crime. Enacted in 1970, it allows law enforcement to target individuals and groups involved in ongoing criminal activities, like drug trafficking, extortion, and fraud. RICO addresses not just the crimes themselves, but also the patterns of illegal behavior conducted as part of an organization. It enables the prosecution of leaders who direct criminal enterprises, even if they didn't commit the crimes directly. The law seeks to dismantle organized crime by hitting its financial infrastructure as well.