Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) is a federal crime in the United States. It is defined as a pattern of criminal activity which is conducted by an individual who is part of a group of at least five people who are involved in a scheme to violate the law and make a profit. The leader of the group, the principal, must have been involved in the criminal activity for at least one year or have committed at least three violations of the law. There are two types of CCE: major and minor. Under the major CCE statute, the principal must be found to have committed at least three violations of the law and must have led or organized the criminal enterprise. The minor CCE statute requires the principal to have committed only one violation of the law and to have acted as a supervisor or organizer. Both types of CCE carry severe sentences, including prison time and fines. In addition, the government may seize any assets acquired through the criminal enterprise.