LAS VEGAS, Nev. - U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada today announced the appointment of a COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator to lead investigations and prosecutions of fraud related to the pandemic, and to work with our partners to develop strategies to detect and prevent fraud schemes.
“Wrongdoers seeking to take advantage of individuals - through fraud or force - during this health crisis are now on notice," U.S. Attorney Trutanich stated. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator will be working with law enforcement at all levels to investigate and prosecute those who exploit the fears of Nevadans for personal gain. This conduct will not be tolerated in Nevada."
As the State of Nevada and this nation face the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada wants to reinforce to the citizens of Nevada that law enforcement functions and our federal justice system continue to operate effectively during the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the safety and security of Nevadans.
As this is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation, we have adapted operations for the health and safety of our personnel. We are executing on the guidance of the U.S. Attorney General, which makes clear that the critical mission of the Department of Justice - protecting the public - will continue. We are also working closely with the court and other stakeholders on appropriate precautions to protect the health of those who practice in and come before the court.
In addition to ensuring that the federal justice system continues to function, the U.S. Attorney’s Office remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing arising from the crisis. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has made a priority all criminal conduct related to the current pandemic. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will protect Nevadans from fraudsters and criminals who seek to exploit this crisis for their profit and personal advantage. We stand ready to hold accountable wrongdoers who take advantage of emergency response efforts and violate the public safety and other laws of the United States in connection with the manufacturing, distribution, or sale of public health products such as face masks, respirators, and diagnostics.
Nevadans are reminded that the best source of information for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 remains the CDC's website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/indcx.html.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
