The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe FindLaw IM Template 2026-06-02T19:30:00Z https://www.chabrowe.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/03/cropped-favicon-chabrowe512-32x32.png On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[What is ‘conspiracy to commit’ in criminal court?]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50229 2026-05-26T12:11:39Z 2026-05-26T12:11:39Z The allegations may relate to an alleged conspiracy or a personal plan If prosecutors believe that a person intended to commit a crime, they may have recordings or electronic communication records to support those claims. The person may have researched similar crimes or purchased equipment. Any proof that two or more people discuss the possibility of cooperatively breaking the law could support conspiracy charges. Whatever the nature of the offense, the state can pursue a second charge related to the intent to commit the crime. These charges are usually one class lower than the alleged crime. An intent to commit an offense related to a Class D felony is a Class E felony, for example. The charge carries separate penalties. It may even be possible for the state to bring both conspiracy and intent to commit charges against the same person in some cases. Conspiracy allegations sometimes arise as secondary charges in addition to allegations related to actual criminal conduct. Attempts to plan criminal activities with others can constitute a conspiracy, as well as the clear intent to break the law.

Acting alone

Those acting alone may face intent to commit charges instead of conspiracy charges if there is evidence of them planning a criminal act before the offense occurred. Other times, if arrests occur before the completion of a planned criminal act, the state may simply allege that the act of discussing or planning future criminal activity was enough of a crime to warrant prosecution. Intent to commit charges can worsen charges related to illegal conduct or may stand on their own if the state intervenes before any crime occurs. Reviewing the evidence provided by the state to support charges with a skilled legal team can help criminal defendants work with an attorney to prepare a reasonable defense strategy.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense including those facing conspiracy charges. Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"] and leave our office a voicemail. Or contact our office online to request an initial consultation. [/author_info] [/author]  ]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[What happens when your business is caught up in a state or federal raid?]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50222 2026-06-02T19:30:00Z 2026-05-06T01:40:14Z What usually happens during the raid State and federal raids of businesses are gaining media attention throughout the country. They typically involve agents securing the premises, controlling movement and gathering evidence under a warrant. The warrant matters. It should specifically list the scope, locations and items that may be searched and seized. Agents may be able to copy data, image devices, remove records and interview employees. It is important to know that investigators will take note of your team’s conduct during the raid within their records. Key moments often include:
  • Entry, scene control and initial instructions to staff  
  • Service of a search warrant, time limits, named premises and listed categories  
  • Seizure of paper files, computers, phones and point of sale records  
  • On site questions to employees, requests for passwords and requests for explanations
After these steps, you may be able to reopen the business but operations may remain limited due to missing systems, missing inventory and internal confusion.

Immediate business impact after the raid

The post raid period often brings uncertainty. Investigators may leave without charges and investigators may return with subpoenas, interview requests and follow up searches. Customers, vendors and lenders may notice disruptions. Internal morale may drop. Before outlining priorities, recognize a central reality: you can take control without obstructing the process. Control comes through documentation, communication and legal coordination. Steps towards gaining control include:
  • Preserve a timeline of events, names, agency identifiers and items seized  
  • Secure remaining records, prevent routine deletion of emails, logs and messages  
  • Centralize communications through leadership, counsel and designated spokesperson  
  • Stabilize operations through temporary systems, alternate vendors and manual processes
Legal counsel can work on your behalf to review the warrant, inventory and return receipt. Counsel may also open dialogue with the agency, clarify next steps, address privilege issues and seek return of property where appropriate.

Legal and reputational considerations

You may face parallel exposure: criminal investigation, civil enforcement, licensing action and forfeiture of assets. Employee statements made under stress can become evidence and public statements can create admissions. Insurance coverage may require timely notice. Contract obligations may trigger default notices. Work closely with counsel on privilege, internal fact gathering, employee guidance and document holds. A measured message to staff, customers and partners can reduce panic while protecting the business. A raid is a high intensity event. The aftermath often matters more than the day itself. Business leaders can gain control over the situation and help protect their interests by focusing on accurate documentation, operational continuity, disciplined communications and prompt legal strategy. With structure, your business can move from chaos to controlled response, protect rights, preserve options and begin recovery.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. If your business or home has been raided by law enforcement, call his office today at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"]. Leave a message with your contact information so that we can call you back to set up a consultation. You can also contact him online.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[3 billing practices that can trigger healthcare fraud charges]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50216 2026-04-30T19:41:23Z 2026-04-30T14:50:38Z 1. Phantom billing Patients are not always reliable. They may fail to show up for an appointment or to collect their prescription from a pharmacy. Many companies now charge a canceled appointment fee for this exact scenario. That fee must come directly from the patient. Billing for a missed appointment or a prescription not picked up by a patient is a form of fraud, even if the intent was to protect a patient from direct financial responsibility for the fee imposed by the business.

2. Unbundling

Insurance providers and government insurance programs negotiate discounted rates for combined services. This bundling process helps limit overall medical expenses, but it also puts pressure on the profit margins of medical businesses. Unbundling involves separating discounted services to bill for each on its own. Unbundling may seem reasonable, but it is a contract violation and a form of insurance fraud.

3. Upcoding

The amount of payment provided depends on the services rendered. The payment schedule looks at the time involved, the materials used and the skills of the professional providing care. In some cases, there may be multiple different charges or billing codes that involve the same materials and professionals. Upcoding involves changing the billing code entered to a more expensive procedure or treatment than the one actually provided to the patient. Individual medical professionals who input inaccurate information into records, insurance coders and billing specialists are all theoretically vulnerable to criminal prosecution due to questionable insurance practices. Reviewing alleged financial misconduct with a white-collar criminal defense attorney can help those accused of healthcare fraud determine the strength of the case against them and evaluate options for defending against those charges.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. He represents those who are facing fraud charges. Contact our office online to request an initial consultation. [/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[Understanding shell companies: when a legal tool becomes a liability]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50207 2026-03-23T15:07:16Z 2026-03-23T15:06:30Z How shell companies are used (and misused) Federal prosecutors in NYC often look for shell companies when investigating the following:
  • Money laundering: Layering transactions through multiple shell companies to make illegally obtained funds appear legitimate.
  • Tax evasion: Funneling income into a shell company to hide it from the IRS or the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
  • Hiding assets: Using an anonymous LLC to purchase luxury NYC real estate or art to shield those assets from creditors or legal judgments.
These investigation triggers often arise from suspicious activity reports (SARs) flagged by financial institutions.

The end of total anonymity

In recent years, the legal landscape for shell companies has shifted permanently due to the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and the New York LLC Transparency Act. In the past, it was possible to form an LLC without disclosing the identity of the true owners to the government. Today, the "Beneficial Owners" (those who own or control at least 25% of the entity) must be reported to FinCEN. Failure to comply with these reporting requirements, or providing false information, is a federal crime that carries substantial daily fines and potential imprisonment. These laws effectively eliminate the "anonymity defense," as state and federal agencies now maintain interlinked databases designed to pinpoint exactly who is benefiting from every registered entity in New York.

Why you need a defense strategy now

In New York, a single "suspicious" transaction involving a shell company can trigger a massive probe by the D.A. or the U.S. Attorney’s Office. If you believe your business entities are under scrutiny, consult with an experienced lawyer before an indictment is handed down.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Attorney Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. He represents people who have been charged, arrested or are being investigated for white-collar crimes. Contact our office online to request an initial consultation. [/author_info] [/author]    ]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[First-degree kidnapping and sex crime allegations explained]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50203 2026-02-27T13:15:04Z 2026-02-27T03:06:49Z Legal framework and classification of first-degree kidnapping allegations New York defines first-degree kidnapping as an abduction plus a serious aggravating factor. Abduction can involve more than blocking a doorway. It may involve hiding a person so others cannot find them or using or threatening deadly force to stop escape. Courts may argue first degree when they claim a ransom demand or an attempt to force someone else to act. They may also point to a restraint lasting more than 12 hours with an asserted intent to injure, sexually abuse, commit another felony, terrorize or interfere with government activity. The charge can also arise when the abducted person dies during the event. This offense falls into the top felony class, so the stakes can be high from the start.

Investigative process and evidentiary issues in sex crime allegations

Sex crime allegations often involve focused evidence collection. You may encounter requests for device data, medical documentation or recorded statements early in the case. Authorities typically examine whether available proof supports claims of force, coercion or lack of consent. Common evidence may include:
  • Medical exam results and lab testing
  • Texts, chats or social media messages
  • Location data, ride logs or call records
  • Video from buildings, streets or businesses
Authorities may compare timelines across statements, digital records and physical findings when evaluating alleged conduct. Early stages may involve arraignment, protective orders or limits on contact that can affect daily routines while the case proceeds.

Structural overlap and prosecutorial connection between both allegations

When authorities file both charges, they may claim that the alleged restraint went beyond the sexual allegation itself. That distinction can increase the level of exposure you face. Each accusation involves different legal elements, so you may need to look at them separately. Early decisions may affect release conditions, court restrictions and case direction. Timing can matter. Reviewing the allegations closely may help you understand risks, possible defenses and procedural choices. In a situation with this level of seriousness, it may be beneficial to speak with a criminal defense professional to evaluate your options and next steps.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Defense attorney, Jeffrey Chabrowe, has over 25 years of experience handling Federal and State criminal cases. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side works and puts those skills to work in defending his clients. Do you need representation? Call [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"] and leave him a voicemail. He or his staff will call you back about a consultation. You can also contact his office online.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[The significant penalties of Medicaid fraud]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50186 2026-02-24T13:27:30Z 2026-02-24T09:38:06Z The high cost of Medicaid deception If a court finds a person guilty, the government imposes strict punishments. The list below outlines the primary penalties the legal system applies to those convicted of Medicaid fraud:
  • Long prison terms: A person faces up to 10 years in prison for each count of health care fraud. This timeframe can double if the government proves the actions caused physical harm to a patient.
  • Heavy fines: The False Claims Act allows the government to collect three times the amount of money lost plus extra fines for every single incorrect bill. These costs quickly add up and can drain a person's entire life savings.
  • Loss of job rights: The Office of Inspector General places convicted individuals on an exclusion list that stops them from working with any federal health program. This often means a person can never work in the medical field again.
  • Asset forfeiture: Prosecutors sometimes take homes, cars or bank accounts that they link to the illegal activity. This asset forfeiture process can leave a family with very few resources.
Beyond the courtroom, the social stigma can damage a person's standing in their local community and hurt private relationships. The constant emotional stress of a public trial can also lead to deep anxiety and exhaustion for the entire family.

Aiming to protect one's future and family

A Medicaid fraud case is a major life event that requires a calm and steady approach. Building a defense can involve numerous records that require a careful and patient eye to find key evidence. By seeking legal counsel, a defendant may receive guidance and support for challenging their white collar crime charges and safeguarding their rights as they aim to protect their future and family.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']https://www.chabrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Defense lawyer, Jeffrey Chabrowe, has over 25 years of experience in handling fraud cases. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side works and puts those skills to work in defending his clients. Call his office today at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"]. Please leave a message with your contact information so that he can call you back to set up a consultation. You can also contact him online.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[Can protestors face criminal charges?]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50179 2026-01-30T21:17:43Z 2026-01-30T21:17:43Z grievances, civil unrest, injustices … there are many reasons people chose to protest. Not only is protesting a way to effectuate change, the First Amendment protects your right to voice your opinion and gather with others. In this way, protesting is legal. But can protestors face criminal charges? In certain situations, the answer is yes. The following will dive into when this is possible and what you should do if you find yourself in this situation. 

Common criminal charges in protest settings

Below are examples of the types of charges officials often pursue in connection to protest related arrests. The exact label can differ by state, and the outcomes depend on the facts of the case. With that in mind, common examples the government has moved forward with in the past that stem from protests include:
  • Disorderly conduct, unlawful assembly, riot allegations tied to crowd behavior or police declared dispersal
  • Trespass, curfew violations, obstruction of a roadway, blocking access to businesses or government buildings
  • Resisting arrest, obstruction of justice, interference with an officer, failure to obey a lawful order
  • Vandalism, criminal mischief, burglary related counts when property damage or entry allegations appear
  • Assault, battery, menacing, harassment charges arising from physical contact or thrown objects
These charges range from infractions to felonies. Many carry collateral effects such as probation conditions, stay away orders, firearm restrictions, immigration consequences, and professional licensing impacts.

Building a defense

It is important to begin building a defense strategy as quickly as possible. The first step if you are arrested while at a protest is to assert your right to remain silent and request legal counsel. Do not elaborate on your position or explain the situation as this can be used against you. While awaiting counsel, gather thoughts about the time, place, route and any police commands during the protest. If possible, take note of badge numbers of responding officers and contact information for any witnesses. Next, begin gathering evidence. This can include video from phones, livestreams, body worn camera requests, nearby business cameras, and even social media posts. Discussions about defense strategy at this point may include possible challenges to probable cause and lawful presence as well as the First Amendment protections noted above and discrimination claims as well as overbroad ordinance enforcement. Protests can be lawful protected speech, but arrests can still occur when authorities allege public order violations, property related offenses or other forms of criminal activity. By understanding common charges, protestors can reduce the risk of facing similar allegations and begin building a defense if necessary.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']https://www.chabrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Attorney Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side works and puts those skills to work in defending his clients. Call his office today at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"]. Please leave a message with your contact information so that he can call you back to set up a consultation. You can also contact him online.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[When a simple chat with investigators turns into an arrest]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50173 2026-01-27T13:13:10Z 2026-01-27T11:25:54Z Spotting the risks in daily questions Investigators often start with what seems like casual talk. They may ask about your daily activities, work relationships or documents connected to a case. Even if you feel confident, offhand remarks could be seen as inconsistent or suspicious. Certain actions can increase your exposure:
  • Leaving out details: Forgetting or skipping information can seem misleading, even if you do not mean to. Investigators may view gaps as attempts to hide something.
  • Guessing answers: Trying to fill in memory gaps may create statements that could be used against you later.
  • Talking to others: Sharing details with friends or coworkers can backfire if the information spreads.

Knowing your rights clearly

You have rights during questioning. Knowing them can help protect your position. You generally are not required to answer every question without a lawyer present or right to counsel. Staying calm, polite and thoughtful can help investigators understand your statements clearly. Some ways to approach questioning include:
  • Ask for clarification: If a question is unclear, it is okay to ask for specifics instead of guessing.
  • Pause before answering: Taking a moment helps you respond more accurately and avoids saying something you did not intend.

Handling the situation if it gets serious

If a conversation seems to shift toward a formal investigation or arrest, staying composed may help prevent additional problems. Avoid arguing or resisting, as it could make the situation worse or create new issues. Being aware of your rights and the possible consequences of your words can reduce risks. Even brief talks with law enforcement can carry legal weight in New York. Choosing words carefully and responding thoughtfully can make a real difference.

Understanding the real risk

Even short conversations can have serious consequences. While not every interaction leads to an arrest, being cautious and informed can give you more control. Understanding how investigators interpret your statements helps you communicate more confidently, lowers the risk of unnecessary escalation and getting a possible criminal defense if you get arrested.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']https://www.chabrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Attorney Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. He is a former prosecutor and knows how the other side works. He puts those skills to work in defending his clients. Request your initial consultation today by sending us an email.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[Accused of crypto fraud: What should you expect now?]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50168 2026-01-29T15:28:40Z 2026-01-26T15:48:19Z How New York handles crypto fraud cases New York uses a special set of laws to regulate digital assets. The most important is the Martin Act. This law gives the New York Attorney General (NYAG) broad power to investigate individuals suspected of fraud. Unlike most laws, the Martin Act does not always require the state to prove you meant to cheat someone before it brings a civil case. Two main agencies usually lead these investigations:
  • The NYAG: This office focuses on protecting investors. It can bring both civil and criminal charges.
  • The Department of Financial Services (DFS): This agency oversees companies that hold a BitLicense. It makes sure these businesses follow strict rules when handling digital money.
Investigations often begin without warning. The NYAG can get a court order to review your emails, bank records and blockchain activity before you know investigators are watching you. By the time you receive a formal notice, investigators may already have collected a large amount of evidence.

Common mistakes to avoid

When people learn they are under investigation, panic is common. Two mistakes can seriously harm a legal defense.
  • Speaking without a lawyer: You may believe that explaining your side will clear things up. However, others can misunderstand even honest answers or use them against you later.
  • Hiding evidence: Deleting messages or closing accounts can lead to obstruction of justice charges. In New York, destroying evidence is a serious crime, regardless of your original intent.
These actions can make a situation much worse. Small choices early on can have lasting consequences.

Why legal guidance matters

Crypto laws change quickly. For example, New York is now considering new rules on issues such as rug pulls and private key theft. These cases often involve complex technology and older laws, such as the Martin Act. Speaking with a knowledgeable white collar defense attorney can help you understand your rights and protect yourself during a stressful process.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']https://www.chabrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Attorney Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side works and puts those skills to work in defending his clients. If you are being investigated for or charged with crypto crimes, you need a tough defense strategy. Call his office today at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"]. Leave a message with your contact information so that we can call you back to set up a consultation. You can also contact us online to request a consultation.[/author_info] [/author]]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe <![CDATA[What is narco-terrorism?]]> https://www.chabrowe.com/?p=50155 2026-01-29T15:08:47Z 2026-01-15T21:37:01Z How does the prosecution establish narco-terrorism? As the country cracks down on allegations of narco-terrorism, it is helpful to understand how the prosecution builds a case. These cases require more than just drug-related violence. Terrorism involves violence that is premeditated and politically motivated. The case of Pablo Escobar serves as a classic example. Pablo Escobar was the leader of the Medellin cocaine cartel in Columbia, known for the assassination of politicians, Supreme Court justices, and other government officials who failed to enact his favored foreign policy changes. The government gathered evidence to support not only his connections to the cocaine industry but also the assassinations of political figures. This highlights the overlap of drug crime and terrorism that are key to a narco-terrorism case.

How should one build a defense against these allegations?

It is important to carefully review each element of the crime the prosecution is attempting to prove and build a defense to counter these claims. It is wise to use this as one of many defense strategies to challenge the prosecution’s claims. Possible examples can include:
  • Lack of intent: Arguing that the accused did not have the intent to support terrorism through drug trafficking.
  • Insufficient evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence as inadequate to prove the connection between drug activities and terrorism.
  • Mistaken identity: Claiming that the accused was wrongly identified as being involved in narcoterrorism activities.
The best defense strategy is one that aims to meet these and other examples and tailors the approach to the particulars of the specific allegations.

What are the penalties for narco-terrorism?

The penalties are severe and can include life imprisonment. It is important to realize that these allegations are generally part of a larger prosecution strategy, often accompanied by additional criminal charges such as conspiracy, money laundering, weapons, and drug charges. Do not underestimate the severity of the allegations and potential penalties. Legal counsel with experience in this area of law can review the allegations and provide legal guidance, helping to better ensure protection of your rights throughout the process.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']https://www.chabrowe.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203455/2023/02/circle-jeffrey.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Jeffrey Chabrowe has over 25 years of experience in criminal defense, including defending against narco-crimes. As a former prosecutor, he knows how the other side works and puts those skills to work in defending his clients. Call his office today at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-Local"]. Leave a message with your contact information so that we can call you back to set up a consultation. You can also contact us online to request a consultation.[/author_info] [/author]]]>