What is the Rico Act? Behind the Charges Alleging Trump's Criminal Conspiracy

Former President Donald Trump and 18 others have been charged with racketeering in Georgia for their alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in the state. In Georgia, racketeering charges are based on the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, also known as the Rico Act, which has both federal and state versions. Prosecutors must show a criminal "enterprise" and a pattern of racketeering involving at least two qualifying crimes. Penalties under Georgia's Rico Act are severe, with prison terms of five to 20 years and fines of up to $250,000. This indictment might generate new evidence and testimony that could be used against Trump and his associates. To convict Trump, prosecutors must prove he was actively involved in the conspiracy, not just following legal advice. DA Fani Willis has previously used Rico statutes in high-profile cases, including prosecuting Atlanta public school teachers and administrators for cheating on state tests.