What Is the USDA’s Role in Corporate Investigations?

The USDA isn’t just a regulatory agency—it’s a powerful federal enforcer. Its oversight includes:

• Agriculture and farming operations

• Animal health and plant inspections

• Food safety and labeling

• Environmental impact and natural resource use

• Organic certification and compliance

• Federal subsidy and contract fraud

Multiple USDA divisions handle investigations:

If your company is involved in agriculture, food production, or animal welfare, a federal investigation by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) can have immediate and serious consequences.

At Ludwig Law Firm, we guide Arkansas businesses through federal enforcement actions—protecting operations, negotiating with agencies, and, when necessary, defending against criminal charges.

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These investigations often begin as civil compliance reviews but can escalate into criminal cases if fraud or willful misconduct is discovered.

What Triggers a USDA Investigation?

Investigations typically begin due to:

• Food contamination or safety complaints

• Reports of animal welfare violations

• Suspected subsidy or contract fraud

• Improper use of pesticides or environmental harm

• Fraudulent use of the organic certification label

• Violations of Farm Bill provisions or contract rules

If the USDA suspects a violation of federal law, it can refer your case to federal prosecutors.

What Laws Can Be Used Against You?

Arkansas businesses may face prosecution under:

• Animal Welfare Act

• False Claims Act (FCA)

• Plant Protection Act

• Lacey Act

• Federal Seed Act

• Food, Conservation, and Energy Act

• Agricultural Bioterrorism Protection Act

These statutes apply criminal and civil penalties. If the USDA determines your business has committed fraud or posed risks to public health or the environment, charges may follow.

What Are the Penalties?

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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.

USDA enforcement actions often target company officers—not just the business entity.

What Happens During an Investigation?

1. Notice of Investigation
   You may receive a letter or agency visit.

2. Document Requests
   Includes production records, certifications, internal communications.

3. Site Inspections
   Inspectors visit facilities and conduct interviews.

4. Preliminary Findings
   The USDA will issue a report and may offer a response window.

5. Referral or Enforcement
   Based on findings, they may impose fines—or refer the matter for prosecution.

Why You Need a Federal Defense Lawyer

USDA investigations can cross into criminal territory quickly. A skilled attorney helps by:

• Handling all communication with USDA officials

• Ensuring your rights are protected during the process

• Responding to document requests strategically

• Building defenses before charges are filed

Our firm is experienced in protecting corporate clients through all phases of a federal investigation.

When the stakes are high, we often partner with Warden Law Firm. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option.