Here is the converted article in Markdown format:

Feds Crack Down on Criminals with Tough New Asset Forfeiture Policy

The Department of Justice has released its latest Asset Forfeiture Policy Manual, outlining the government’s strategy to take down criminal organizations and deny them the proceeds of their illegal activities.

Disrupting and Dismantling Criminal Enterprises

The 2023 edition of the policy manual provides a comprehensive guide for prosecutors, agents, and other professionals on how to use asset forfeiture as a tool to disrupt and dismantle criminal enterprises. The goal is to deny criminals the means and motivation to commit crimes.

Returning Forfeited Assets to Victims

One key aspect of the new policy is the emphasis on returning forfeited assets to victims of crime. This includes:

• A process for remission, restoration, and preservation of assets for victims of human trafficking, fraud, and other crimes.
• Providing relief to those who have suffered.

“We’re committed to making sure that those who have been victimized by criminal activity get justice,” said a Department of Justice spokesperson. “By returning seized assets to their rightful owners, we’re not only holding criminals accountable but also providing relief to those who have suffered.”

Qui Tam Actions

The policy manual also outlines the False Claims Act (FCA) and Qui Tam actions, which allow private citizens to bring lawsuits on behalf of the government against individuals or companies that defraud the government.

“Qui Tam actions are a powerful tool in our fight against fraud,” said an attorney with experience in FCA cases. “By allowing whistleblowers to come forward and seek damages, we can recover millions of dollars in stolen funds.”

Equitable Sharing

The policy manual also covers equitable sharing, which allows law enforcement agencies to share seized assets with other agencies.

“Equitable sharing is a critical component of our asset forfeiture program,” said a senior law enforcement official. “It allows us to pool resources and work together to take down criminal organizations.”

Conclusion

Overall, the new Asset Forfeiture Policy Manual represents a major step forward in the government’s efforts to combat crime and protect American citizens.

“We’re committed to using every tool at our disposal to take down criminals and deny them the proceeds of their illegal activities,” said a Department of Justice official. “This policy manual is just one example of how we’re working to achieve that goal.”