Attorney General Merrick B. Garland delivered remarks on the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force 2024 Report on April 9, 2024. In his speech, Garland recognized the efforts of those involved in combating pandemic-related fraud, stating, "Thanks so much, Gene, for that introduction and for your leadership on this issue."
Garland highlighted the ongoing work of the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force, which was established nearly three years ago to address fraud related to the pandemic. Despite the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, Garland emphasized that the Department of Justice's efforts to prosecute individuals who misappropriated pandemic relief funds are far from over.
The Attorney General announced the accomplishments of the Task Force, revealing that more than 3,500 defendants have been charged, over $1.4 billion in stolen COVID-19 relief funds have been seized or forfeited, and more than 400 civil lawsuits have been filed resulting in court judgments and settlements. Garland commended the collaborative efforts of the Task Force, which comprises nearly 30 agencies across the federal government.
Looking ahead, Garland expressed the Department's support for legislation to extend the statute of limitations for all COVID-19 fraud-related offenses, ensure adequate resources for anti-fraud efforts, and prolong the existence of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC). He thanked the 20 Inspectors General who make up the PRAC for their oversight of pandemic relief spending and acknowledged Senators Durbin, Peters, and Wyden for their involvement in addressing the issue.
In conclusion, Garland reiterated the Justice Department's commitment to investigating and prosecuting pandemic relief fraud to recover stolen assets from American taxpayers. He concluded his remarks by thanking Gene for the opportunity to report on the Task Force's progress, stating, "Thanks, Gene, for giving me an opportunity to report on results so far."