U.S. government officials regularly take action to address multiple types of federal crimes and pursue charges against those who are accused of violating the law. Fraud is a key issue that is addressed by federal investigators and prosecutors, and a recent report from the Department of Justice has highlighted the types of cases that are being pursued. The Justice Department’s Fraud Section is continuing to focus on prosecuting white collar crimes and other financial crimes, and it is likely to take legal action against individuals and businesses who are accused of committing fraud or related offenses. By understanding the types of cases the DOJ regularly addresses, those who may face accusations of fraud or other white collar crimes can be sure they are prepared to defend themselves against federal charges.
The DOJ Fraud Section has units that investigate and prosecute multiple different types of cases. These units include:
Market Integrity and Major Frauds (MIMF) Unit - This unit addresses fraud related to securities, investments, banking and financial instruments, and it works in conjunction with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate multiple types of fraud schemes and financial crimes. It often pursues charges against those who are accused of offenses such as mortgage fraud, bank fraud, or consumer fraud. In recent years, it has focused more and more on fraud involving cryptocurrency. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has also addressed fraud related to government benefits under the CARES Act, including loans received through the Paycheck Protection Program.
Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) Unit - The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act addresses bribery of government officials and accounting practices by companies that engage in international commerce. The DOJ investigates corruption by large companies that affects fair competition in global markets, as well as offenses that may threaten the national security of the United States. The FCPA unit may prosecute companies that are accused of engaging in wire fraud or other forms of large-scale financial fraud.
Federal prosecutors with the Department of Justice have vast resources that allow them to pursue convictions in cases involving fraud. Defendants in these cases will need legal representation as they determine the best defense strategy against accusations of white collar crimes. At Woolf Law Firm, LLC, we have extensive experience representing clients in federal courts and defending against charges of fraud and financial crimes. Attorney Brian Woolf is the former Banking and Securities Commissioner for the State of Connecticut, and this experience has given him the knowledge needed to successfully defend clients who have been charged with financial crimes. To learn how we can assist with your case, contact our Hartford white collar crimes defense attorney at 860-290-8690 and set up a complimentary consultation.
Sources:
https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2022/02/17/what-the-2021-doj-fraud-section-year-in-review-may-tell-us-about-future-enforcement-trends/
https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/file/1472076/download