White Collar Crimes in Western New York: Fraud, Embezzlement, and Wire Fraud Explained
Nicholas Texido
Feb 24 2026 18:00

White collar crimes are among the most complex and sensitive criminal cases in Western New York. If you are a business professional, public employee, financial worker, or government contractor in Buffalo, Amherst, Williamsville, Tonawanda, Niagara Falls, or anywhere in the WNY region, even the suggestion of wrongdoing can put your career, reputation, and future at risk.

When facing allegations such as fraud, embezzlement, or wire fraud, discretion and experienced legal representation are essential. As a seasoned white collar crime lawyer in Buffalo NY, Texido Law provides clients with confidential, strategic defense for state and federal investigations.

This guide explains the most common white collar charges in Western New York — and what you need to know if you are under investigation.

What Are White Collar Crimes?

White collar crimes typically involve allegations of financial deception, manipulation, or misuse of authority. They are often charged at the state level in New York or the federal level, depending on the scope of the alleged conduct.

Common white collar cases in the Buffalo and Western New York area include:

  • Fraud

  • Embezzlement

  • Wire Fraud

  • Insurance Fraud

  • Corporate or Accounting Fraud

  • Identity Theft

  • Investment or Securities Fraud

  • Public Corruption

  • Misuse of Government Funds

Because many cases involve complex financial records and lengthy investigations, these charges often begin quietly — long before an arrest.

Fraud Charges in Western New York

Fraud is one of the most frequently investigated white collar offenses in Buffalo and the surrounding WNY region. Fraud cases can include allegations of intentionally deceiving another person or entity for financial gain.

Types of fraud commonly charged in Western New York:

1. Insurance Fraud

Allegations may involve automobile insurance claims, workers’ compensation filings, or business insurance documentation.

2. Mortgage and Real Estate Fraud

Often investigated by federal agencies and local task forces, especially in Erie County and Niagara County.

3. Healthcare Fraud

These cases may involve billing discrepancies, false claims, or improper medical documentation.

4. Credit Card or Identity Fraud

Accusations involving unauthorized use of financial or personal data.

Penalties for fraud in New York vary, but many cases are prosecuted as felonies with potential prison time, restitution, and lasting professional consequences.

A knowledgeable white collar crime lawyer Buffalo NY can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and help protect your reputation throughout the process.

Embezzlement in Buffalo and Western New York

Embezzlement occurs when someone in a position of trust is accused of misappropriating funds or property belonging to an employer, organization, or government agency.

In WNY, embezzlement charges often arise from:

  • Corporate finance roles

  • Accounting or bookkeeping positions

  • Public offices or municipal departments

  • Nonprofit organizations

  • Employee expense accounts

  • Company credit card misuse

  • Payroll or vendor invoice fraud

Because these cases often involve detailed financial documentation, early intervention is critical. Many investigations begin internally — well before law enforcement becomes involved.

Consequences of an embezzlement conviction can include:

  • Felony charges

  • Lengthy probation or incarceration

  • Significant restitution payments

  • Permanent loss of professional licensing

  • Damage to reputation within the Buffalo business community

Texido Law understands the sensitive nature of these accusations and works discreetly to protect your rights and career.

Wire Fraud: A Federal Crime With Serious Penalties

Wire fraud is one of the most serious white collar offenses because it is often prosecuted by federal authorities, including the FBI, IRS, or U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York.

Wire fraud involves using interstate electronic communication to commit or attempt financial deception, including:

  • Emails

  • Phone calls

  • Text messages

  • Online transactions

  • Bank transfers

  • Digital records

You can be charged with wire fraud even if the alleged scheme never succeeded.

These cases often involve business owners, executives, public employees, tech professionals, and individuals handling large financial transactions in Buffalo and Erie County.

A conviction for wire fraud can result in:

  • Federal prison time

  • Enormous fines

  • Forfeiture of assets

  • Long-term probation

  • A federal felony record

This makes it essential to work with an experienced white collar crime lawyer Buffalo NY who understands federal court procedures and strategies.

How White Collar Investigations Begin in Western New York

Most clients are surprised to learn that white collar cases rarely start with a dramatic arrest. Instead, they typically begin with:

  • An internal company audit

  • A whistleblower complaint

  • Suspicious financial records

  • A request for documents or interviews

  • A federal subpoena

  • Notice of an ongoing investigation

If you have received a letter, phone call, or visit from investigators, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately — even if you haven’t been charged.

Early legal involvement allows your attorney to:

  • Communicate with investigators on your behalf

  • Prevent self-incrimination

  • Protect your professional standing

  • Begin building a strong defense before charges are filed

Why Experience Matters: Work With a Trusted White Collar Crime Lawyer in Buffalo NY

White collar crime allegations can damage your career, your finances, and your reputation in Western New York. Whether you work in finance, healthcare, real estate, government, education, or corporate management, you need a defense lawyer who understands:

  • Complex financial records

  • Multi-agency investigations

  • State and federal legal procedures

  • The need for confidentiality and privacy

  • The high stakes involved for professionals

Texido Law represents clients throughout:

  • Buffalo

  • Erie County

  • Niagara County

  • Chautauqua County

  • Cattaraugus County

  • All Western New York communities

With deep experience in felony cases, serious financial charges, and complex investigations, Texido Law provides strategic, discreet, and personalized representation.

Protect Your Future. Protect Your Reputation.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a white collar crime in Buffalo or Western New York, do not wait. The earlier you involve an attorney, the more options you may have.

Texido Law stands ready to defend your rights, your career, and your future with professionalism and discretion.