Julian Cope presents Head Heritage

Yes there is a difference. The frauds were commited by people in the public trust that often have a hand in dictating the law and are supposedly in positions of responsibility and are expected to perform as such. In other words, as well as the actual crime of fraud, their actions represent clear and repugnant abuses and violations of their publicly elected positions and power and a betrayal of trust. Their 'crime' extends far beyond the act itself. A kid nicking trainers is unlikely to be in a position of public office.

You're right...it is basic. And it's far more rotten at the top EXACTLY because of who they are and what they do.