United States Attorney Thomas E. Wheeler II announced on July 16 the creation of the Southern District of Indiana Fraud Task Force during a federal fraud forum in Indianapolis, which brought together representatives from 20 federal law enforcement agencies to discuss strategies for combating fraud and theft involving taxpayer-funded programs across Indiana.
The new task force will include federal prosecutors, special agents, forensic accountants, analysts, and other personnel from participating agencies. Its purpose is to strengthen coordination through data-sharing and investigative cooperation to detect, investigate, and prosecute those who defraud taxpayers. The initiative aims to formalize coordination processes among agencies and prioritize resources for investigating fraud related to government programs, cybercrime, and schemes targeting citizens throughout the state.
These actions are part of a nationwide anti-fraud effort led by the White House and Department of Justice. President Donald Trump issued Executive Order 14395 on March 16, directing federal agencies to accelerate efforts against waste, fraud, and abuse within benefit programs under the leadership of Vice President J.D. Vance’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
Wheeler said, “Today’s forum is a major step in reaffirming our commitment to rooting out fraud in Indiana. This is also designed to provide a framework for a consistent approach to these important matters on the federal side as we continue our strong working relationships with our state and local partners to strengthen a whole-of-government approach.” He added, “Fraudsters should be aware—the federal government is watching at every level. We will leverage the full resources of law enforcement to find you, uncover your schemes, and ensure you are held accountable for every penny.”
In 2026 so far, Wheeler’s office has secured charges or sentences against 19 individuals for fraud-related crimes, including recent convictions tied to a $1.2 million travel insurance kickback scheme as well as an elder fraud case involving $500,000 led by Shayna Williams.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana serves as chief federal law enforcement officer under the Department of Justice across 60 southern counties divided into four divisions; it maintains offices in Indianapolis and Evansville while prosecuting federal crimes and defending United States interests in court proceedings through collaboration with other law enforcement entities, according to the official website.