In short
- The task force includes federal, state, and local agencies, focusing on intelligence sharing and coordinated investigations.
- Its mission is to deter fraud, waste, and abuse of federal funds and ensure programs reach intended recipients.
What happened
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico launched the Interagency Fraud Enforcement Task Force, bringing together federal law enforcement, state partners, and inspectors general. The first meeting was held on October 15, with participants discussing strategies for identifying and prosecuting fraud schemes targeting government programs.
The task force aims to expand intelligence and data sharing, analyze investigative leads, and direct law enforcement resources toward significant fraud schemes. This initiative supports the DOJ’s nationwide priorities and the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance coordination and strengthen fraud detection and prosecution.
Our office—working alongside our federal, state, and local partners—will apply every criminal, civil, and administrative tool at our disposal to uncover fraud, stop it, and hold offenders accountable for the harm they cause.
Named in this item
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What compliance teams should check
- Review the list of participating agencies in the Puerto Rico Interagency Fraud Enforcement Task Force for potential reporting or cooperation requirements.
- Update internal fraud detection protocols to align with the task force’s all-hands approach and expanded intelligence sharing.
- Monitor developments from the National Fraud Enforcement Division for new typologies and guidance relevant to federal program fraud.
Why it matters
The creation of the Puerto Rico Interagency Fraud Enforcement Task Force signals increased scrutiny and coordination among federal, state, and local agencies to combat fraud against government programs. For AML/CFT compliance officers, this means heightened expectations for detecting, reporting, and cooperating on fraud investigations involving federal funds. The task force’s focus on intelligence sharing and resource allocation may lead to more robust enforcement actions and new typologies, requiring compliance programs to adapt quickly to evolving risks and regulatory priorities.
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