For some, the idea of a family-run business can conjure up sentimental thoughts of siblings, children, parents, grandparents, and extended family, keeping treasured traditions alive for generations through trust, commitment, shared values, sacrifice, and hard work.

For others, it can mean something entirely different. Cousins and Philadelphia residents Nathaniel (Nate) Leonard and Larry Leonard ran three family-owned pawn shops together until late 2024 when they were caught allegedly flipping stolen merchandise out of their stores, as well as on eBay.

If their ordeal, continued below, hits close to home for you or someone you know facing stolen property-related white-collar charges, know that you can turn to the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team. We defend clients from Philadelphia and surrounding areas of Pennsylvania involved in situations similar to this. Call 888-535-3686 or use our contact form to request a confidential consultation.

A Team Effort to Take Down a Family Affair

In mid-December, the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced the Leonards' indictment following a team effort by Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service, the Delaware State Police, and the Philadelphia Police Department.

Their investigation resulted in federal charges of conspiring to transport and sell millions of dollars worth of stolen goods across state lines. Larry Leonard was also charged with money laundering for using proceeds to pay off credit card debt.

Why federal charges? The federal government can prosecute stolen property crimes if the value exceeds $5,000 if the crime crosses state boundaries, and if the perpetrators used the Internet or other electronic communication to commit the crime. Check, check, and check.

The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team defends clients from Philadelphia and surrounding areas of Pennsylvania against federal white-collar charges involving stolen property and other crimes.

From Big Box Schemes to the Big House

In this particular case, the duo is specifically accused of purchasing goods stolen from major retailers and reselling them through Society Hill Loan and K&A Money Loan Pawnbrokers in Philadelphia, Lou's Jewelry and Pawnshop in Wilmington, Delaware, and through eBay.

Now, the cousins' entrepreneurial ambitions are dimmed, as they are facing serious prison time if convicted – a possible 15 years for Nate and up to 45 for Larry Leonard. This might come as a surprise since there is a common misperception that white-collar criminals get off much easier than violent offenders. Certainly, this can be the case for well-resourced and connected individuals. But the truth can be anything but for everyday citizens.

Regular people like Larry and Nate, who are convicted of federal crimes, often face life-altering prison sentences. Even those who get lucky and walk free find that their reputations, careers, personal lives, and mental health pay hefty prices for federal financial crime accusations.

Secure Help from an Experienced Federal Defense Attorney

Because the federal penal system operates under a set of laws separate from Pennsylvania's, accused individuals sometimes don't know where to turn to defend themselves against severe charges.

If you are confronting federal criminal charges in Pennsylvania, you need a serious defense strategy that thoroughly explores the facts and circumstances of your case, carefully crafted and executed by an attorney who is well-versed in the federal criminal trial process.

The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team possesses extensive knowledge of federal stolen property laws and has successfully defended many clients in Pennsylvania District Courts. We will review your case, advise you of your options, and fight for your future. Call the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or fill out our contact form to request a confidential consultation.