How the Federal Government Investigates White Collar Crimes in Arkansas

What Counts as a Federal White Collar Crime?

White collar crimes involve non-violent financial fraud prosecuted under federal law. Common examples include:

• Wire fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343)

• Mail fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341)

• Tax evasion (26 U.S.C. § 7201)

• Bank fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344)

• Securities fraud

• Healthcare fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1347)

These cases typically fall under federal jurisdiction when they cross state lines, involve federal institutions, or violate federal regulations.

Who Investigates These Cases in Arkansas?

Federal white collar investigations are usually handled by:

• FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation)

• IRS Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI)

• U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)

• Office of Inspector General (OIG)

• Health and Human Services (HHS) for Medicare/Medicaid fraud

These agencies coordinate with Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Eastern or Western District of Arkansas.

White collar crimes don’t begin with flashing lights and an arrest. They begin quietly, with a subpoena, a whistleblower, or a sealed federal investigation. At Ludwig Law Firm, we know how these cases unfold in Arkansas federal court, and we help clients protect their rights before charges are ever filed.

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How an Investigation Typically Starts

Most federal white collar investigations start in one of these ways:

• A whistleblower or cooperating witness reports suspicious activity

• A subpoena or civil investigative demand is issued

• A forensic audit or agency review uncovers irregularities

• A parallel civil investigation leads to criminal findings

You may not even know you're under investigation until you're contacted or even indicted.

What Tools Do Federal Agencies Use?

The federal government has broad investigative power. Common tools include:

• Subpoenas for bank records, email, and internal company communications

• Search warrants for offices and homes

• Wiretaps and surveillance in complex fraud schemes

• Grand jury subpoenas and sealed testimony

• Data analytics to identify billing anomalies in healthcare or securities trading

Federal agents don’t move quickly. They meticulously build cases over a span of months, sometimes years, before filing charges.

Why You Need a Lawyer—Now

If you’ve received a target letter, subpoena, or are aware of a federal inquiry, you are not just a witness. You are possibly the subject of a future indictment.

Having a federal criminal defense lawyer involved early opens channels for negotiation and provides you the opportunity to offer your testimony in front of a grand jury. Much better than the alternative of receiving a targeting letter, or worse – being arrested in your home or workplace.

Your Future Starts Here

A detention hearing can define your ability to work, prepare for trial, and maintain your family life. Ludwig Law Firm works tirelessly to help you stay free during your case and prepare an effective defense.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
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📍 Proudly serving clients in the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.