On This Page
WHAT IS WIRE FRAUD / ELECTRONIC FRAUD IN NEVADA?
Nevada's wire fraud statute prohibits using electronic communications — phone, email, internet, or wire transfers — to execute a scheme to defraud another person of money, property, or services. Federal wire fraud charges often accompany state charges.
WHAT THE PROSECUTION MUST PROVE
To convict you of Wire Fraud / Electronic Fraud in Nevada, the prosecution must prove each of the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
The defendant devised or participated in a scheme to defraud
The defendant used electronic communications, wire transfers, or the internet
The communications were used in furtherance of the fraud
Another person suffered financial loss or was at risk of loss
If the prosecution cannot prove any single element beyond a reasonable doubt, you cannot be convicted.
PENALTIES FOR WIRE FRAUD / ELECTRONIC FRAUD IN NEVADA
Under $650
Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
$650–$3,499
Category C Felony — 1–5 years prison
$3,500+
Category B Felony — 1–10 years prison
Federal charges
Up to 20 years federal prison per count
THOMAS'S DEFENSE TIPS
Insights from Thomas Boley — Las Vegas criminal defense attorney with 18+ years defending wire fraud / electronic fraud charges
Wire fraud cases are often prosecuted at both the state and federal level simultaneously. Understanding which jurisdiction is driving the case is the first strategic decision.
The prosecution must prove you knew the communications were part of a fraudulent scheme. Misrepresentation by a third party or reliance on false information from others can negate this element.
Digital evidence in wire fraud cases — emails, IP logs, transaction records — must be properly authenticated. I always examine whether the chain of custody for electronic evidence was maintained.
Many wire fraud charges stem from business deals gone wrong. A civil dispute does not automatically become a crime — the line between aggressive business practices and criminal fraud is often contested.
If you receive a target letter from federal investigators, retain counsel immediately. Do not respond to investigators without an attorney.
The above represents general observations from years of criminal defense practice in Nevada. Every case is different — contact Thomas for advice specific to your situation.
COMMON DEFENSES TO WIRE FRAUD / ELECTRONIC FRAUD
Every case is unique, but these are the defenses most commonly raised in wire fraud / electronic fraud cases in Nevada:
Lack of intent to defraud — good faith belief in representations made
No scheme to defraud — business dispute, not criminal conduct
Insufficient evidence connecting defendant to the communications
Entrapment by government agents
Statute of limitations