Overview

The Homeland Security Investigations' Commercial Fraud Unit oversees the wildlife trafficking program. HSI special agents have the main authority in investigating crimes that involve moving illegal goods across borders, including wildlife products and violations related to customs duties.

Lacey Act

HSI enforces the Lacey Act, which prohibits the illegal trade of wildlife, fish, and plants. They focus on crimes like incorrect labeling, fake import documents, and unlawful importation and exportation. These crimes are often linked and addressed more forcefully than simple wildlife law violations because they can lead to serious criminal charges.

Customs and Border Searches

HSI has unique powers within the U.S., including full authority over customs and border searches. They’re the only agency that can access both trade and bank secrecy data, making them a key player in unraveling complex criminal schemes. With 93 offices across 56 countries, HSI has extensive reach. They work on building global law enforcement capabilities and tackling international crime rings. Their attachés collaborate with local and regional law enforcement to fight organized crime, including wildlife trafficking and other major crimes.

Task Force

In 2013, an Executive Order aimed at combating wildlife trafficking led to the formation of a task force. HSI played a significant role in shaping the U.S. strategy and implementation plan, leveraging their expertise and resources. A 2017 Executive Order highlighted the link between wildlife trafficking and broader criminal networks, stressing the importance of tracking and stopping the flow of illegal profits. This aligns well with HSI's strengths in financial investigations.