DOJ Launches New Anti-Fraud Division Targeting Taxpayer Theft

Acting Attorney General Blanche vows to 'zealously investigate and prosecute' complex fraud schemes.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:55am

A fractured, geometric painting of justice-themed symbols like a gavel and scales, along with dollar bills, all swirling in a high-energy, chaotic composition conveying the complex, systemic nature of government fraud.The DOJ's new anti-fraud division will wield data-driven tactics to uncover and prosecute complex schemes draining taxpayer funds.Glendale Today

In his first public address, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced the creation of a new National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice. The division will focus on investigating and prosecuting fraud cases involving health care, taxes, benefits, and corporate crime across the United States.

Why it matters

The new anti-fraud effort comes amid a rise in high-profile fraud cases, including recent charges against dozens of individuals accused of bilking millions from government programs. The DOJ is aiming to take a more coordinated, data-driven approach to tackling what Blanche described as a 'fraud crisis' plaguing the country.

The details

Blanche said every U.S. attorney's office will contribute prosecutors to the new division, which will leverage data and multiple agencies to uncover complex fraud schemes involving federal funding. The division will focus on fraud in health care, taxes, benefits, and corporate crime. Colin McDonald, a former top aide to Blanche, was recently confirmed to lead the new division.

  • Blanche was named acting attorney general earlier this month, replacing former AG Pam Bondi.
  • The new National Fraud Enforcement Division was first announced during Bondi's tenure.

The players

Todd Blanche

The acting attorney general who announced the creation of the new anti-fraud division.

Colin McDonald

The newly confirmed assistant attorney general who will lead the National Fraud Enforcement Division.

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What they’re saying

“The newly created National Fraud Enforcement Division would 'zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal taxpayer dollars and rip off the American people.'”

— Todd Blanche, Acting Attorney General

“This is not just the theft of the American people's money. It is also the theft of critical services that the American people rely on.”

— JD Vance, Vice President

What’s next

The new anti-fraud division will begin operating immediately, with dozens of prosecutors assigned to handle cases across the country.

The takeaway

The DOJ's new anti-fraud push reflects growing concerns over the scale of fraud impacting government programs and taxpayer funds. By centralizing enforcement efforts, the department aims to more effectively investigate and prosecute complex schemes that have drained billions from critical social services.