Feds Host Workshop To Stop Financial Crimes In W.Va.

Federal prosecutors say unsuspecting West Virginians – including the state’s large elderly population – are at risk for a variety of financial schemes such as romance cons as well as money laundering conducted in order to hide drug and human trafficking. 

“West Virginia has one of the nation’s oldest populations per capita and we tend to be trusting and take others at their word. That makes the state a target-rich environment for financial scams,” said U.S. Attorney Will Thompson of the Southern District. 

He and U.S. Attorney William Ihlenfeld of the Northern District are teaming up to host the Mountain State Bank Secrecy Act and AntiMoney Laundering Conference next week. 

It will feature federal prosecutors and agents – those on the front lines of tracking and stopping such crimes. 

Financial professionals who attend from across the state will learn about trends in economic crimes and how to recognize the monetary evidence of drug and human trafficking, scams and elder abuse. 

Ihlenfeld said the conference will provide bank, credit union, money services workers and casino staff with the information they need to identify suspicious activity and respond appropriately. 

The conference takes place June 11 at WesBanco Bank in Wheeling, City National Bank in Charleston, and virtually.

Registration is required and may be completed by emailing jeana.gattesco@usdoj.gov on or before June 7.