The Justice Department's COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force (CFETF) has released its 2024 report showcasing the significant efforts made in combating pandemic-related fraud. According to Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, the task force has charged over 3,500 defendants and seized or forfeited more than $1.4 billion in stolen COVID-19 relief funds.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco emphasized the importance of continuing the fight against fraud, stating, "the time is now to ensure law enforcement has what it needs to finish the job." She called for an extension of the statute of limitations and additional funding to recover hundreds of millions of dollars more in fraud proceeds.
Director Michael C. Galdo of the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force acknowledged the progress made but highlighted that much work still remains in the battle against COVID-19 fraud. He mentioned ongoing investigations into identity thieves, transnational fraud networks, and large-dollar individual fraudsters.
The CFETF has established five strike forces to concentrate on the most complex pandemic fraud, with a specific focus on overseas, organized, or violent actors. These strike forces have indicted 250 defendants, including gang members and cyber-enabled fraudsters.
Furthermore, the CFETF formed the National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force, which has disseminated over 100 leads associated with more than $3 billion in suspected pandemic fraud. The task force aims to prevent fraud by sharing intelligence and collaborating with various agencies.
The CFETF, established in May 2021, comprises Justice Department components, interagency partners, and key agencies to bolster efforts in investigating and prosecuting criminal actors involved in pandemic-related fraud. The task force aims to prevent fraud by enhancing coordination mechanisms, identifying fraudulent actors, and sharing insights gained from prior enforcement efforts.
The comprehensive efforts of the CFETF and its member agencies have resulted in significant outcomes, including criminal charges against thousands of defendants and the recovery of billions of dollars in stolen relief funds. The task force continues to work diligently to combat pandemic-related fraud and protect American taxpayers.