IRS Financial Crimes Experts Train Eastern Caribbean Police and Intel Units in Grenada

Workshop on Financial Investigative Techniques Holds in Grenada

Grenada played host to a financial investigative techniques workshop from May 22-26, 2023. The event, organized by the United States Department of the Treasury’s Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation division, was attended by over 60 participants from police investigators and financial intelligence officers across the Eastern Caribbean. The aim was to strengthen their skills in identifying and pursuing financial investigations, with a focus on combating fraud and money laundering.

Collaborative Training Initiative

The IRS’s National Criminal Investigation Training Academy spearheaded the training, working closely with the U.S. Embassy Bridgetown and its International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs section. This initiative is part of a broader US Government commitment to enhancing financial investigations and raising awareness of illicit financial flows in the region.

Comprehensive Learning Experience

The agenda featured courses on:

• Evidence gathering and analysis
• Interviewing techniques
• Preparing for courtroom activities
• Practical exercise

These modules offered attendees a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience.

Workshop facilitators, attendees, and U.S. Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy Grenada, Stephen Frahm

The Importance of Collaboration

Linda Taglialatela, U.S. Ambassador to Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), highlighted the significance of close collaboration between law enforcement, financial intelligence units, revenue authorities, and government officials in combating financial crimes.

“With the increasing globalization of banking and rapid transfers of money, it’s paramount for organizations like these to work together to curb financial crimes. Cooperation between these key partners ensures that investigations progress and that potential vulnerabilities in the financial system are not exploited by money launderers.” Linda Taglialatela, U.S. Ambassador

Grenada’s Proactive Efforts to Combat Financial Crimes

Grenada was selected as the hosting location due to its proactive stance against financial crimes. Ambassador Taglialatela praised Grenada for its recent ratification of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) and its engagement with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force.

“Grenada’s exemplary efforts to challenge financial fraud make it an excellent host for this workshop.” Linda Taglialatela, U.S. Ambassador

Workshop Conclusion

The event concluded with a group photograph of the workshop facilitators, attendees, and Mr. Stephen Frahm, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy Grenada.