An interstate prostitution network with high-end brothels operating in greater Boston and eastern Virginia has led to significant federal charges against key members, including Junmyung Lee, who recently pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering.
Lee’s role as a “booker” involved overseeing appointments, vetting clients, and managing substantial sums of cash earned from these illicit activities. Lee faces charges—up to 25 years in prison and substantial fines.
An important factor that a defense lawyer must focus on when defending high profile charges such as these is highlighting any potential cooperation with authorities, particularly if a defendant has provided information regarding the network’s operations or co-defendants.
Cooperation with law enforcement is often a mitigating factor that can positively influence sentencing under federal guidelines. Lee may have played a relatively lesser role in the Brothel organization’s operations compared to others, such as others who controlled financial aspects.
In large complex white collar cases such as these, federal criminal defense attorneys should prepare a comprehensive background investigation to identify any personal or psychological factors that may have influenced Lee’s involvement in the network. If he was financially pressured or manipulated into this role by co-conspirators, these arguments could provide the judge with context that encourages leniency. Additionally, exploring options for alternative sentencing, such as probation or supervised release rather than a lengthy prison term, could benefit Lee given his cooperative stance and potentially less central role in the network’s overall structure.
In facing money laundering charges, attorneys will need to build a defense to Lee’s specific actions in handling funds. Lee’s role may have been limited to operational logistics rather than the sophisticated structuring practices typically associated with high-level money laundering schemes. This strategy could be especially useful in reducing fines, which could reach double the amount of funds laundered, depending on the prosecution’s findings.
In summary, Lee’s defense strategy should emphasize his cooperation, relatively minor operational role, and potential mitigating personal circumstances. By carefully positioning these factors within federal sentencing guidelines, his attorney may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence that allows for a fair outcome based on his actual involvement.
At Dhar Law, LLP, our attorneys have decades of experience defending federal crimes and sex crimes such as prostitution and financial crimes such as money laundering and prostitution in court. We have built robust cases for clients that confront the most serious allegations and shield our clients from the worst consequences for their career, reputation and family life. Please contact us at 617-880-6155 to speak to a member of our experienced Boston sex crimes defense team.
