Accessory After the Fact

When a crime is committed, anyone who knowingly assists the perpetrator may be considered an accessory to the act. This designation applies to people who help before, during, and after the crime. Any person who knowingly gives assistance, relief, or monetary help to a criminal after a crime has been committed is considered an “accessory after the fact”.

Punishments for being an accessory after the fact can include fines, criminal prosecution, and jail time. For more information on this criminal offense, contact a Milwaukee criminal defense lawyer from Hart Powell, S.C. at (414) 271-9595.

Examples

A few examples of actions that may be considered by the prosecution are:

• Giving monetary assistance to a suspected criminal
• Providing shelter
• Transporting a suspected criminal
• Providing a means of transportation
• Providing a suspected criminal with food or clothing

An important note about accessory after the fact charges is that the prosecution typically has to prove that the individual knowingly provided assistance to the perpetrator of a crime. Common punishments for accessory crimes include not more than half of the imprisonment terms or fines levied against the individual who actually committed the crime.

Contact a Milwaukee Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal prosecution can have serious effects on your freedom, finances, and family life. If you have been accused of a crime, contact the Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys of Hart Powell, S.C. at (414) 271-9595 for the defense you need.