Justice Department intensifies efforts to protect seniors from fraud

by Mathew Richards

HOUSTON, Texas — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has reported significant strides in its year-long campaign to shield seniors from fraud and exploitation, with plans to expand its Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force.

In the past year, the DOJ in collaboration with law enforcement partners, has addressed a wide range of issues, from mass-marketing scams affecting thousands of victims to local fraudsters. There have also been considerable efforts to reimburse victims of fraud. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the department's commitment to protecting seniors, stating, “We are intensifying our efforts nationwide to protect older adults...This expansion builds on the Justice Department’s existing work to hold accountable those who steal funds from older adults, including by returning those funds to the victims where possible.”

U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery echoed Garland's sentiments, expressing disappointment in the frequency of senior citizens falling victim to fraud and abuse. She affirmed the department's dedication to holding scammers accountable and preserving the dignity of the aging community.

Between September 2021 and September 2022, the DOJ and its partners pursued approximately 260 cases involving over 600 defendants. In the Southern District of Texas (SDTX), federal grand juries returned indictments in 10 cases involving more than 15 defendants, with losses amounting to approximately $38 million from elderly victims throughout the district.

The SDTX has also been proactive in community outreach, raising awareness about scams and exploitation to prevent victimization. This includes a podcast in Spanish for elderly citizens, conducted in conjunction with AARP and FBI, with more planned this year.

The DOJ also announced the expansion of the Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Force, adding 14 new U.S. Attorney’s Offices. This move is expected to enhance coordination in combating large-scale fraud schemes that target or disproportionately impact older adults.

In the past year, the DOJ has notified over 550,000 people that they may be eligible for remission payments, particularly those who fell victim to “sweepstakes” or “astrology” solicitations that falsely promised prizes.

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Justice Department intensifies efforts to protect seniors from fraud