Criminal may get cleared by a rider (5)

I believe the answer is:

fence

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'criminal' is the definition.
(I've seen this in other clues)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for fence that I've seen before include "Handler of stolen goods" , "Beat about the bush" , "Dealer in stolen property" , "Guard" , "Stolen goods dealer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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