WALT SPECHT: Take the profit out of crime

What this country needs is an enforcement group that are forensic accountants. Folks that follow the money, be that through purchases or lifestyle. If the source of the funds cannot be determined to be legal, then the money and acquired property should be seized. I believe that was what RICO was all about.

In order to stop theft and corruption, someone has to follow the money trail. For drug dealers to live their lifestyle, they have to spend that money. They wouldn’t sell drugs if it weren’t for the gratification derived from the money they make. Make that money useless, and you take the incentive away.

This works for theft, embezzlement, corruption, extortion and any other profit-producing crimes. Isn’t that how they got Capone? Go after any display of wealth that isn’t explainable. Nine times out of 10, a criminal career will be stopped.

Now, let’s hear all the lawyers yelling about it, because it just might eat heavily into their income. If the client cannot prove where the retainer came from, seize it. Why should the lawyers profit from the clients’ illegal gain?

WALT SPECHT

Leesburg