NASHVILLE – In a significant announcement, United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis revealed that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee has successfully recovered a total of $22,670,748.85 during Fiscal Year 2023. This considerable sum was collected on behalf of crime victims and American taxpayers, marking a notable achievement for the office.
The funds collected stem from diligent efforts in both civil and criminal cases. A substantial portion, amounting to $19,217,743.17, was recovered through civil actions. These are primarily associated with cases brought under the False Claims Act. This act is a critical tool that allows the United States to recoup up to triple the amount of funds fraudulently taken from government programs. Additionally, the office secured $2,323,187.68 from money judgments in criminal cases, directly benefiting victims of crime. Asset forfeiture contributed another $1,129,818 to the total, with these funds being seized in both criminal and civil proceedings throughout the fiscal year.
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The U.S. Attorney’s Office places a strong emphasis on affirmative civil enforcement actions. These actions aim to recover funds lost to fraud or other forms of misconduct against the United States. They also seek monetary penalties and injunctive relief to halt ongoing violations of federal laws. Asset forfeiture, a key strategy in the office’s toolkit, aims to strip criminals of the proceeds and tools of their crimes, thereby taking the profit out of illegal activities.
Furthermore, the office is dedicated to enforcing the collection of all federal debts within the Middle District of Tennessee. This includes a broad range of obligations, from criminal fines and restitution orders to civil judgments against debtors and unsecured civil debts referred by federal agencies.
United States Attorney Leventis praised the hard work and dedication of the office’s staff, highlighting their role in securing these significant recoveries on behalf of taxpayers and crime victims. This fiscal year’s achievements underscore the office’s commitment to protecting public funds and ensuring justice for victims of crime in Middle Tennessee.
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