Financial Crime Prosecution and Sentencing in the U.S. Virgin Islands: A Stronger Front Against White Collar Crime

Overview

The White Collar Crime Section of the Virgin Islands Department of Justice has been established to combat financial crime and corruption in the territory, with a mandate to prosecute white collar offenses aggressively and effectively.

Responsibilities

According to the Virgin Islands Code, the section is responsible for:

• Investigating and prosecuting cases referred by law enforcement agencies, including:
  • The Virgin Islands Police Department
  • Inspector General Office
  • Bureau of Internal Revenue
• Private citizen complaints

Leadership and Staffing

The White Collar Crime Section is led by a Director and is staffed with Assistant Attorneys General (AAGs) who:

• Provide legal advice to law enforcement during investigations
• Determine what charges can be brought based on evidence presented
• File charges with the courts and bring cases to trial

Investigative Capabilities

The section has in-house investigators from the Special Investigations Division (SID), including an investigative accountant certified in fraud examination, who work alongside WC staff to conduct financial investigations into complex white collar complaints filed with the Attorney General or WC.

Investigation and Prosecution Process

• Carrying out criminal investigations of white collar and public corruption offenses
• Prosecuting cases brought by private citizen complaints and referrals from other law enforcement agencies

Conclusion

With its experienced team and robust investigative capabilities, the White Collar Crime Section is well-equipped to tackle even the most complex financial crime cases in the Virgin Islands.