What must a defendant show under RICO to prove racketeering?

To prove racketeering under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), a defendant must demonstrate participation in a pattern of racketeering activity. This means showing that they were involved in two or more predicate acts that are related and demonstrate continuity, which is a critical element of establishing racketeering. The law focuses on the ongoing nature of the criminal activity rather than isolated incidents.

Participation indicates that the individual played a role in the illegal enterprise's operations, thus tying their actions to the broader context of organized crime as defined by RICO. This focuses on the systemic behavior of the defendant in conjunction with others, further highlighting the importance of established patterns of conduct involving criminal enterprise.

Other options do not fulfill RICO’s requirements. Commitment to community service does not relate to proving involvement in criminal activities under this statute, while prior criminal activities without showing a pattern do not meet the definition necessary for RICO claims. Lastly, proof of residency has no relevance to the requirements of demonstrating racketeering activity under RICO.