There are exceptions, but generally US legal mechanisms function on money. More money buys more consideration. US culture also tends to wink at a lot of what i

There are exceptions, but generally US legal mechanisms function on money. More money buys more consideration. US culture also tends to wink at a lot of what is called "white collar" crime. If whatever you're up to does not involve stealing from specific individuals or rich people, you'll probably get a slap on the wrist. And if you're stealing from the government, a lot of people will commend you, or at least envy you.