Los Angeles prosecutors have filed California’s first lawsuit seeking to seize homes, businesses, and other assets of known members of Los Angeles’s largest gang, the 18th Street gang. The suit was filed on Monday December 8, 2008 against nine leaders of the gang.

The suit stems from a state law passed earlier this year which allows cities to sue for “financial damage gangs cause communities.” The suit is aiming to reduce the wealth that gangs such as the 18th Street gang is thought to accumulate through illegal activities. Any damages that are gained from any such lawsuits will, according to Los Angeles officials, will be funneled back to the neighborhoods through programs and other measures.

This new type of lawsuit brings a new and very dangerous aspect to these arrests of gang members. If arrested and charged with gang related crimes, not only is the defendant’s freedom at stake, but their wealth as well as their family’s wealth may rest on the outcome of the criminal case as well. This is precisely why it is so important to retain the services of a competent and experienced criminal defense attorney. This defense lawyer will not only be protecting the accuser’s freedom, but also the wealth and assets belonging to them and their families.

Wallin & Klarich has over 30 years of experience in criminal defense and will get you the help you need to resolve your criminal matter. Our qualified and aggressive attorneys will fight to protect you or your loved one’s freedoms and assets in criminal court. Just call anytime 24 hours a day 7 days a week at 1-888-749-0034 or visit us on the web at www.wklaw.com.