Financial Crime World

Austria Grapples with Diverse Financial Crimes: A Look into the Types and Investigation Methods

Austria has been facing a multitude of financial crimes, including tax evasion and customs fraud. To combat these offenses, the Anti-Fraud Office has established the Fiscal Offences Sector, which is responsible for handling fiscal criminal proceedings in accordance with the rule of law.

The Fiscal Offences Sector: A Key Player in Combating Financial Crimes

Established in January 2021, the sector works closely with the criminal justice system to investigate and prosecute serious cases of tax evasion and customs fraud. With extensive legal knowledge and international cooperation at its disposal, the sector has successfully cracked down on complex cases involving major fraud schemes with international ramifications.

Investigation Methods

Investigations typically begin when the Fiscal Authority for Criminal Offences receives notifications or communications from other public authorities, including:

  • Postal and public communications operators
  • Parcel service providers
  • Customs agencies

The authority is empowered to:

  • Obtain information
  • Conduct inspections and checks
  • Request special information from these sources

Criminal Investigations and Proceedings

In cases where there are sufficient grounds for suspicion, criminal investigations must be conducted. This involves extensive legal proceedings and potentially resulting in severe penalties.

For example, financial crimes committed intentionally with a penalty-relevant amount exceeding €100,000 can lead to punishment by an appraisal court of three members, chaired by a judge.

The Role of the Fiscal Authority for Criminal Offences

The Fiscal Authority for Criminal Offences plays a crucial role in handling financial criminal cases. Its responsibilities include:

  • Conducting oral proceedings
  • Rendering penalty decisions
  • Executing penalties

In cases where legal remedies are contested, the authority must handle legal proceedings all the way to the highest courts.

Conclusion

With its expertise and resources, Austria’s Fiscal Offences Sector is well-equipped to tackle the complex and diverse world of financial crimes, ensuring that those who engage in these offenses face the full force of the law.