Good point BB, in discussing where the very thin and razor sharp edge really is. Ironically, the most benign organization can step off into the RICO hole regardless of the original intentions, charter or business history of the enterprise. Case in point is BCCI International Bank and its' subsequent affiliates and holdings within the US. For years BCCI functioned as a boutique entity originated by several London and Dubai bankers of long standing repute as investment specialists. Legitimate, for a while.
Based upon its' track record, it became the "in" place for the rich and famous in US to house out of reach funds. After operating for some time on a legitimate level, BCCI secretly purchased two additional established banks in the US, CenTrust Savings Bank in Miami and Independence Bank of California. Between 1984 and 1991 DEA and IRS tracked approximately 125 cases of drug proceeds through BCCI and the US affiliates all of which had, at one time been legitimate. When the RICO indictment came down in 1991 the "G" seized 550 million in cash, all bank assets including those of BCCI in their branches in Cayman and Panama. Within 30 days over 40 bank employees and associates pled guilty. DOJ managed the physical properties until they were liquidated. Despite a reported 8.5 million in legal fees they fell right off in the RICO hole.
Sorry for the protracted example, but it really points up how the best intentions or business plan can develop into a criminal enterprise and subject itself to extensive seizures and individual criminal exposure.