The Department of Justice has launched a new Trade Fraud Task Force, and Chicago’s U.S. Attorney’s office has been named a lead partner. That means federal prosecutors right here in the Northern District of Illinois are actively building trade fraud cases – targeting importers, exporters, and businesses accused of customs violations, duty evasion, and smuggling prohibited goods.
If your business deals in imported or exported goods, or you’ve had any contact with federal agents related to trade compliance, this development matters to you.
Who Is at Risk?
The task force is focused on a specific set of offenses – and the net is wide. You may be at risk if you are:
- An importer or exporter accused of evading customs duties
- A business suspected of importing below-market goods to undercut American competitors
- An individual or company accused of smuggling goods that violate public health, safety, intellectual property rights, or national security laws
- Anyone tied to supply chain fraud or misrepresentation of the origin, value, or nature of imported goods
It’s worth noting that federal investigators don’t limit their scrutiny to the most obvious bad actors. Companies that unknowingly worked with suppliers engaged in fraud can find themselves drawn into an investigation.
What “Being Targeted” Actually Means
Federal investigations don’t start with an arrest. They start quietly – with surveillance, subpoenas, and months of evidence-gathering before you ever know you’re in the crosshairs. By the time an agent contacts you or a grand jury subpoena arrives, the government has already been building its case. Being a “subject” or “target” of a federal investigation is not the same as being charged – but it is serious, and it requires immediate action.
The Biggest Mistake People Make
Waiting. People assume that if they haven’t been charged, they have time. They don’t retain counsel. They speak to investigators without representation. Federal agents are skilled at gathering information in ways that can be used against you later – anything you say, even casually, can become part of the government’s case.
What to Do If You Think You’re Under Investigation
- Do not speak to federal agents without an attorney present. Politely decline and contact a lawyer first.
- Do not destroy or delete any records. Document destruction during a federal investigation can result in separate criminal charges.
- Retain a federal criminal defense attorney as early as possible. Pre-charge representation gives your attorney the opportunity to intervene before the situation escalates.