Federal & White Collar Defense Blog

David Tarras

David Tarras is the founder of Tarras Defense, where he represents individuals, executives, professionals, and businesses in federal criminal defense, white collar crime, and regulatory investigations. His practice includes healthcare fraud, tax fraud, securities and cryptocurrency fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and complex federal investigations. David is known for strategic early intervention, discreet case management, and aggressive defense in high-stakes matters involving the DOJ, IRS, SEC, and other federal agencies.

Wire Fraud: Evidence, Defenses, and Federal Investigation Guide

A woman checking her phone after seeing her bank account on her laptop for wire fraud

Wire fraud is one of the most commonly used federal statutes in white collar criminal cases. Many people assume that if they sent an email or text message, or made a phone call or wire transfer, they will automatically be charged. However, the use of interstate or foreign electronic communications is only one element. The government still has to prove the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, and there are many ways to challenge allegations. If you are facing a federal investigation involving a business dispute, financial transaction, or online activity involving allegations of wire fraud, speak with a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Do not assume you have no defenses or recourse.

What Is Wire Fraud?

Wire fraud involves making deceptive representation using electronic communications with criminal intent that induces someone to part with money, property, or something material. To secure a conviction, federal prosecutors must generally establish four core elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

A Scheme or Artifice to Defraud

A situation that initially looks like a commercial disagreement involving a contract, investment, payment, or business interest can escalate into a wire fraud case if federal investigators believe there to be a plan or course of conduct of intentional deception to induce someone to depart with money, property, or something material.

Knowing and Intentional Participation

Prosecutors must establish that you were not accidentally involved but that you knowingly and intentionally participated in a coordinated plan to deceive someone. Mistakes, bad business outcomes, poor judgment, or reliance on incorrect information are not proof of criminal intent. 

Material Misrepresentation

The alleged misrepresentation must be significant enough to influence a decision to send money, transfer property, enter into a transaction, or otherwise depart with something material. Not every statement is material. 

Use of Interstate Wires

Communication “by means of wire, radio, or television communication in interstate or foreign commerce, including any writings, signs, signals, pictures, or sounds” is a broad jurisdictional element of the wire fraud statute. 

Why Wire Fraud is Alleged in So Many Federal Investigations

Nearly all modern commercial activity involves interstate electronic communications (e.g., emails, text messages) and financial transactions (e.g., wire transfers, online payments, and server-based communications). The government may attempt to stretch even minor communications into federal wire fraud charges. 

An alleged scheme may involve multiple people, businesses, financial accounts, transactions, and jurisdictions, with emails, phone calls, payment systems, or bank transfers connecting the activity. Federal investigators routinely audit years activity and communications to connect separate transactions into a single alleged conspiracy. Federal prosecutors may allege wire fraud together with money laundering, investment fraud, business fraud, healthcare fraud, securities fraud, cryptocurrency schemes, bank fraud, tax offenses, or other white collar crimes when the same conduct allegedly involves multiple violations. 

 

Sentencing of Wire Fraud 

20 years is the standard maximum penalty; however, this is not what a person can reasonably expect their sentence to be. Under 18 United States Code § 1343, if the conduct is dealing with a financial institution, or if it occurs during a time of a crisis, a national emergency, imprisonment may be up to 30 years.

A man getting notified of a wire fraud on his phone

Potential Defenses of Wire Fraud Allegations  

Good Faith

A financial loss or commercial disagreement does not equal a crime. If you acted honestly and believed your statements to be true at the time, that can directly undermine the government’s claim of intent to defraud. 

Mistake of Fact

You may have acted based on incorrect information that was believed to be true at the time without any intent to deceive. Misunderstanding financial data, relying on inaccurate third-party information, or making an error in judgment does not automatically amount to fraud. 

Lack of Intent

Sending an email or text is not enough to make someone guilty. Proof of criminal intent is required, and that standard creates meaningful opportunities to challenge the government’s case.

Non-Materiality

Not everything is considered material. There are many ways in which what a person departs with is not material. It’s not money. It’s not property. It might be information, an idea, or a decision, but not something that is legally considered material.

What Should I Do if the Feds Contact Me?

You may learn that your business or financial transactions are being investigated when federal agents call you, knock on your door, or show up at your workplace, or when you receive a subpoena. 

Do not speak. Do not turn over documents. Do not even breathe in their direction without an attorney.

Contact a federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Do not delete, alter, or destroy records or communications, and avoid discussing the investigation with friends, colleagues, employees, business partners, or other parties. 

Mistakes with Federal Agents: Why You Need a Wire Fraud Lawyer Immediately

Many people panic and assume they must immediately negotiate a plea deal. Nationally recognized trial lawyer David Tarras, founder of Tarras Defense, often sees the following misconceptions.

“I must respond to law enforcement or the feds. If I don’t give them the information or documents they are asking for, it will be held against me.”

Reality: Federal agents may try to create a false sense of urgency, but you have a constitutional right under the Fifth Amendment to remain silent. Exercising that right cannot be used against you in court. Speaking to them without counsel, however, even in an “informal” attempt to explain your side of the story, can provide investigators with statements that may later be used as evidence against you.

“If I hire a lawyer, the feds will think that I’m a criminal.” 

Reality: Retaining legal counsel is a standard, protective business step, not an admission of guilt. The feds often prefer when an attorney is on board to communicate and facilitate the investigation without violating the subject’s rights.

“I’m out of hope. I have no options.” 

Reality: There are always options, even when the feds are at your door. A wire fraud lawyer can evaluate the government’s allegations, review financial and digital evidence, communicate with investigators when appropriate, and develop a defense strategy. Early intervention may create opportunities to address misunderstandings, challenge the government’s interpretation of transactions, and seek a resolution before criminal charges are filed.

Proven Defense in Wire Fraud Cases

Tarras Defense represents individuals, executives, business owners, and professionals facing federal investigations and white collar criminal allegations. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, our firm focuses on strategic federal defense from the earliest stages of an investigation.

Wire Fraud: Prison Avoided, Probation Only

In a federal wire fraud case carrying significant prison exposure, Tarras Defense obtained an extraordinary outcome of no incarceration despite federal sentencing guidelines that called for a prison sentence. 

Wire Fraud Conspiracy: Downward Variance to Six Months

In a fraudulent car loan scheme, Tarras Defense persuaded the Court to impose six months in custody followed by supervised release, rather than a substantially longer prison sentence.

$57 Million FOREX Investigation: No Charges Filed

In a $57 million foreign-exchange investment fraud investigation, Tarras Defense convinced federal prosecutors and SEC criminal investigators in the Middle District of Florida (Orlando Division) to decline prosecution, resolving the matter without criminal charges.

We focus on pursuing the strongest possible outcome at every stage and protecting your reputation, freedom, and future. Contact Tarras Defense for a confidential consultation.

Call: 954-592-9416
Email: David@TarrasDefense.com

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and in any related blog posts is for general informational and educational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as legal advice for any specific case or situation. Viewing or receiving this content does not create an attorney-client relationship, and no such relationship is formed unless expressly agreed to in writing with the firm.

Frequently Asked Questions: Wire Fraud

Can A Business Dispute Become a Wire Fraud Case?

A business dispute does not automatically become a wire fraud case simply because money or electronic communications are involved. However, allegations of intentional deception combined with interstate electronic communications can lead to a federal investigation. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the government’s allegations actually support the elements of wire fraud.

Does Sending an Email or Text Message Automatically Count as Wire Fraud?

The presence of an email, text message, or electronic payment does not by itself establish wire fraud. The government must still prove the required elements of the offense, including the alleged fraudulent scheme and the defendant’s intent, beyond a reasonable doubt.

What Evidence Is Reviewed in a Wire Fraud Investigation?

Federal investigators may review extensive digital and financial evidence, including:

  • Emails and text messages
  • Phone records and electronic communications
  • Bank and wire transfer records
  • Online payment transactions
  • Business and accounting records
  • Cryptocurrency transactions and digital wallets
  • Contracts, invoices, and financial statements
  • Computer files and other electronic records

What to Do After Receiving a Healthcare Fraud Subpoena

A doctor checking his phone in a healthcare fraud situation

If you have received a healthcare fraud subpoena, you should not respond to investigators or share information before speaking with a healthcare fraud defense attorney. Investigations involving allegations of Medicare fraud, Medicaid fraud, billing schemes, Anti-Kickback Statute violations, laboratory fraud, DME fraud, telemedicine fraud, prescription fraud, and other healthcare-related financial crimes often involve years of financial and electronic record analysis, undercover operations, and witness cooperation before charges are ever filed.

Contact a Healthcare Fraud Defense Attorney Immediately  

A subpoena is a formal legal demand for records, documents, or information related to a potential investigation. 

By the time a healthcare provider receives a subpoena, federal investigators may have already spent months or years reviewing claims data, analyzing billing patterns, gathering information from other sources, and examining financial, billing, and medical records.

Receiving a subpoena does not automatically mean you will be charged with a crime, but it generally indicates that federal authorities are investigating conduct connected to your practice, business operations, or healthcare-related activities. 

Contact a healthcare fraud attorney as soon as you receive a subpoena or learn that you may be under investigation. Protect your rights, your practice, and your future. 

Agencies Involved in Healthcare Fraud Investigations

Healthcare fraud investigations often involve multiple federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and other federal or state agencies responsible for investigating healthcare fraud and related financial crimes.

Federal investigators examine whether a person or organization knowingly submitted false claims or deceptive information to obtain payment from healthcare benefit programs such as Medicare or Medicaid. Investigations may target individual providers, medical practices, healthcare executives, pharmacies, laboratories, billing companies, telemedicine providers, and durable medical equipment suppliers.

Records and Activities Federal Investigators May Review

  • Patient medical records and documentation
  • Claims submissions and billing records
  • Coding practices and reimbursement history
  • Provider agreements and referral relationships
  • Bank records and financial transactions
  • Communications between employees, vendors, and business partners
  • Ownership structures and financial arrangements

Investigators evaluate whether billing practices, documentation, or business relationships suggest intentional misconduct rather than administrative errors or compliance issues.

What Not to Do After Receiving a Healthcare Fraud Subpoena

Receiving a subpoena can be overwhelming, especially for physicians, healthcare executives, clinic owners, billing companies, pharmacy operators, and DME providers who are still practicing or involved in daily operations while facing government scrutiny. Actions taken during the early stages of a federal investigation can significantly affect the direction and outcome of the matter.

  • Do not alter, delete, or destroy records. Preserve emails, patient files, billing documents, financial records, and electronic communications that may relate to the investigation. Destroying or changing information after receiving a subpoena carries severe legal consequences.
  • Do not assume that the matter can be handled informally or without legal guidance.
  • Do not speak with federal agents, investigators, or prosecutors before consulting a criminal defense lawyer. Even conversations described as routine or informal may become part of the government’s investigation and may later be used as evidence.
  • Do not discuss the investigation with employees, patients, associates, partners, vendors, or potential witnesses. Statements made to others may later become relevant during the investigation.

A young doctor surprised at what is in brief case.

Why Early Legal Representation Matters in Healthcare Fraud Investigations

A Medicare fraud lawyer or Medicaid fraud defense lawyer can review the allegations and subpoena, identify potential legal issues, and develop a strategy to protect your interests before prosecutors make charging decisions. In a case involving a $6 million Medicare kickback allegation, Tarras Defense persuaded DOJ Trial Attorneys with the South Florida Medicare Strike Force to decline charges against the CEO of the accused genetic testing marketing company.

Early legal guidance allows your attorney to:

  • Review and narrow the scope of requested records, which may include financial records, billing data, or medical documentation
  • Respond strategically to the subpoena and communications from investigators
  • Identify compliance issues or misunderstandings
  • Communicate with investigators when appropriate
  • Assess the government’s concerns and develop an effective defense strategy
  • Challenge the government’s interpretation of billing practices
  • Dispute allegations of intent 
  • Review alleged financial loss calculations
  • Demonstrate good faith reliance on consultants, coders, billing professionals, or compliance advisors

Protect Your Practice, License, and Future

Healthcare fraud allegations threaten more than criminal liability. Physicians, executives, and healthcare business owners may face professional licensing issues, exclusion from federal healthcare programs, financial penalties, reputational harm, and significant disruption to their businesses.South Florida remains one of the most active regions in the country for federal healthcare fraud enforcement. Founded by nationally recognized trial lawyer David Tarras and based in Boca Raton, Florida, Tarras Defense approaches healthcare fraud cases strategically from the earliest stages of the investigation, with a focus on protecting clients, managing communication with federal authorities, and preparing an aggressive defense when necessary.

Consult a Healthcare Fraud Defense Lawyer Today

If you received a healthcare fraud subpoena, have been contacted by federal investigators, or believe your practice may be under investigation, do not wait to speak to a lawyer.

The sooner you retain legal representation, the more opportunities there may be to protect your interests and respond strategically.

Call: 954-592-9416
Email: David@TarrasDefense.com

Frequently Asked Questions: Healthcare Fraud Subpoena

Does A Healthcare Fraud Subpoena Mean I Will Be Charged?

Receiving a healthcare fraud subpoena does not automatically mean you will be criminally charged. A subpoena may be part of a larger federal healthcare fraud investigation while investigators are still determining the nature and scope of any potential violations involving multiple individuals, businesses, billing practices, or transactions. Although a subpoena is not a criminal charge, it generally means investigators are gathering records, reviewing billing practices, and examining issues connected to your practice, business, or conduct. The matter should be taken seriously and addressed carefully.

What Are Common Medicare or Medicaid Fraud Allegations?

Common Medicare and Medicaid fraud allegations involve false billing, inaccurate documentation, improper coding, unnecessary services, false certifications, and other conduct that may improperly seek or receive payments from government healthcare programs. Federal authorities may also investigate potential Anti-Kickback Statute violations involving financial arrangements, payments, or benefits intended to influence referrals or healthcare decisions. Investigators may review relationships between healthcare providers, marketing companies, laboratories, pharmacies, and equipment suppliers to determine whether financial incentives influenced patient care or billing decisions.

When Does a Tax Audit Become a Criminal Investigation?

A picture of the IRS building where tax audits are conducted

A civil tax audit is very different from an IRS criminal investigation. While a civil audit focuses on whether a taxpayer correctly reported income, deductions, tax obligations, and other tax-related matters, an IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) focuses on whether there is evidence of intentional violations of federal tax laws. If you believe your tax matter may involve allegations of tax fraud, false returns, offshore accounts, payroll tax issues, cryptocurrency reporting violations, or other financial crimes, you should consult a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in IRS investigations as soon as possible.

What Is a Civil Tax Audit?

A civil tax audit is an examination conducted by the Internal Revenue Service to verify the accuracy of a taxpayer’s returns and supporting documentation. The IRS may review income records, business expenses, deductions, credits, financial statements, and other information to determine whether additional taxes, penalties, or interest are owed.

Most civil audits are resolved without criminal charges. Taxpayers may be required to provide additional documentation, correct reporting errors, pay additional taxes, or address civil penalties. However, information discovered during a civil audit may create concerns if IRS examiners believe the issue involves intentional conduct rather than an honest mistake or misunderstanding.

What Is an IRS Criminal Investigation?

IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) is the law enforcement division of the Internal Revenue Service responsible for investigating suspected criminal violations of federal tax laws and related financial crimes. Unlike a civil audit, an IRS-CI investigation examines whether a taxpayer knowingly and willfully violated a legal duty.

IRS-CI investigations often involve extensive financial analysis of evidence, including bank records, business transactions, electronic communications, and tax filings. Federal investigators may work with prosecutors from the Department of Justice and use investigative tools such as subpoenas, witness interviews, and search warrants.

Not every IRS-CI investigation results in criminal charges. However, these investigations should always be taken seriously because federal investigators may already have spent months or years gathering evidence before contacting the taxpayer.

Common Issues Investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation

IRS-CI handles a wide range of tax-related and financial crime investigations. These matters may involve:

  • Fraudulent tax returns or filings with false business records, invoices, or other information 
  • Intentionally concealed taxable income through offshore accounts or undisclosed foreign assets
  • Improperly claimed deductions, credits, exemptions, or business expenses
  • Abusive tax strategies or financial structures to conceal assets, ownership, or income
  • Inaccurate financial records, invoices, or business documentation
  • Employment tax issues involving payroll tax reporting, tax deposits, and employee withholding 
  • Omitted or misreported cryptocurrency transactions or digital assets
  • Fraud involving banks, financial institutions, or other money-related businesses
  • Tax violations connected to healthcare fraud, public corruption, or other financial crimes
  • Money laundering involving complex financial transactions or attempts to conceal sources of funds

Signs Your Tax Audit May Be a Criminal Investigation

Many federal tax investigations begin long before a person realizes they are a target. Certain events indicate that you should seek guidance from a lawyer immediately. Even if you believe the situation is a misunderstanding, these events should always be taken seriously.

Contact From IRS Criminal Investigation Agents

If IRS-CI special agents request an interview or attempt to discuss your tax filings, financial activity, or business operations, you should speak with a lawyer before providing information. Even conversations described as informal can become part of a federal investigation.

Subpoena or IRS Summons

Receiving a grand jury subpoena or an IRS summons may indicate that the government is seeking financial records, documents, or testimony connected to a potential criminal matter. A lawyer who specializes in criminal tax fraud defense can help you understand your legal obligations, protect your rights, and determine the appropriate response.

Search Warrants or Seizure of Records

A search warrant means federal investigators have obtained judicial authorization to search for evidence related to suspected criminal activity. These actions often occur after investigators have already gathered substantial information during an investigation.

Involvement of Other Federal Agencies

Some tax investigations involve agencies such as the FBI, Department of Justice, FinCEN, or other federal authorities. When multiple agencies become involved, the investigation may extend beyond tax compliance issues into broader white collar criminal allegations.

A gavel and the words spelled out for fraud

Why Intent Matters in Criminal Tax Cases

Most tax audits remain civil matters. However, a civil examination may raise criminal concerns when IRS examiners identify evidence suggesting that inaccurate tax filings or financial information were intentional rather than accidental. A tax dispute involving a disagreement over deductions or documentation is different from an allegation that a taxpayer intentionally attempted to evade taxes. The distinction often depends on the facts, evidence, and government’s ability to prove willful conduct.

Civil tax matters generally involve questions about whether the correct amount of tax was reported, while criminal tax cases involve allegations that a taxpayer intentionally violated federal law. 

Federal prosecutors must prove that a taxpayer acted willfully. This requires more than showing that a tax return contained an error or that taxes were underpaid. Since intent is central to criminal tax cases, statements made during an audit or investigation can significantly affect how prosecutors evaluate the matter.

What to Do If IRS-CI Contacts You

  • Do not attempt to explain the situation or answer questions before speaking with legal counsel. Federal agents are trained investigators, and statements made during an interview may later be used as evidence.
  • Do not alter, delete, or destroy financial records, tax documents, emails, or electronic communications. Preserve all potentially relevant information. 
  • Avoid discussing the investigation with coworkers, business partners, employees, or potential witnesses.
  • Hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will evaluate the government’s allegations, communicate with investigators when appropriate, and begin developing a defense strategy before prosecutors make charging decisions.

Criminal Tax Fraud Defense at Tarras Defense

The pre-indictment stage is one of the most important periods in a federal tax investigation. Early legal representation allows counsel to analyze financial records, evaluate potential defenses, identify weaknesses in the government’s theory, and protect your legal position before the matter becomes public.

Founded by nationally recognized trial lawyer David Tarras and based in Boca Raton, Florida, Tarras Defense represents individuals, business owners, executives, and professionals facing complex federal investigations and white collar criminal allegations.

Our firm focuses on resolving matters before criminal charges are filed whenever possible. Through strategic investigation, careful review of financial evidence, and experienced federal defense advocacy, Tarras Defense works to protect clients facing allegations involving tax fraud, IRS-CI investigations, financial crimes, and other serious federal matters.

Our approach is focused on understanding the full picture, identifying weaknesses in the government’s case, and developing a defense strategy designed to protect our clients’ reputation, freedom, and future.

Book a Confidential Consultation Today

If IRS Criminal Investigation has contacted you, you received an IRS subpoena, or you believe your tax matter may involve criminal allegations, do not wait to seek legal guidance. By the time federal investigators make contact, they may already have gathered significant evidence and developed a theory of the case.

Call: 954-592-9416
Email: David@TarrasDefense.com

Frequently Asked Questions: IRS Criminal Investigation

Will a Civil Tax Audit Lead to a Criminal Investigation?

A civil tax audit does not automatically lead to criminal charges. Most IRS audits are resolved through additional documentation, negotiated adjustments, payment of taxes owed, or civil penalties. A tax audit may lead to an IRS-CI investigation if evidence suggests intentional violations of federal tax laws. Early legal guidance can help evaluate potential criminal exposure and protect your rights before charging decisions are made.

When Should You Hire a Criminal Tax Fraud Lawyer?

You should hire a criminal tax fraud lawyer as soon as you believe your tax matter may involve criminal allegations. Early representation is crucial. Waiting until charges are filed may limit opportunities to address issues during the pre-indictment stage while federal investigators are evaluating whether criminal charges may be appropriate. 

What Does A Criminal Tax Fraud Lawyer Do?

A criminal tax fraud lawyer represents individuals and businesses facing allegations involving tax fraud, IRS-CI investigations, and other federal financial crimes. Your attorney can review evidence, assess potential defenses, communicate with investigators when appropriate, and develop a strategy designed to protect your legal interests. Early involvement may create opportunities to address issues before a case progresses to formal charges.

DOJ Fraud Enforcement Priorities Signal Earlier, More Data-Driven Federal Investigations

Tarras Defense founding attorney David Tarras examines how the Department of Justice’s new National Fraud Enforcement Division could change federal fraud investigations, prosecutions and defense strategy.

The U.S. Department of Justice has announced an expansive new approach to federal fraud enforcement, with significant implications for individuals and businesses facing healthcare fraud, tax fraud, corporate misconduct and other financial crime investigations.

On August 13, 2026, Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald issued a memorandum outlining the enforcement priorities of the DOJ’s newly created National Fraud Enforcement Division. The memorandum identifies five areas of focus: public trust and financial integrity, healthcare, internal revenue, global trade and commerce, and corporate misconduct.

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When Should You Hire a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer?

concerned businessman receiving federal notice via email

You should hire a federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as you learn you may be under federal investigation. Waiting until federal charges are filed can significantly limit opportunities to protect your rights, respond strategically to investigators, and shape the direction of the case before prosecutors make charging decisions. Whether you receive a federal target letter, grand jury subpoena, search warrant, or contact from federal agents, consulting a lawyer as soon as possible should be your priority.

You Do Not Need to Wait Until Charges Are Filed to Hire a Lawyer

Many assume that the time to hire a federal criminal defense attorney is after an arrest or indictment. In reality, federal criminal cases often begin quietly, without any formal notice that you are the focus, and are built over months or even years, long before charges are filed.

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What to Do After Receiving a Federal Target Letter

image of the federal government and flags

Receiving a federal target letter is a serious, urgent matter that should not be ignored. It does not guarantee you will be indicted, but a federal target letter is a formal notice issued by a United States Attorney’s Office that you are the focus of a criminal investigation being conducted by the Department of Justice. It is imperative that you retain a federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights and develop a legal strategy to protect your reputation, freedom, and future.

What Is a Federal Target Letter?

A federal target letter is a formal communication from a United States Attorney’s Office informing an individual that they are considered a target of a federal criminal investigation. Federal investigations may involve white collar matters, public corruption, wire fraud, healthcare fraud, securities fraud, RICO offenses, money laundering, cybercrime, tax fraud, drug trafficking, firearms offenses, or other serious federal charges. 

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David Tarras Selected to 2026 Florida Super Lawyers Rising Stars List for Criminal Defense

This marks David’s second consecutive year receiving this recognition.
David represents individuals, executives, professionals, licensed providers, and businesses in serious federal criminal defense and white collar matters, including federal investigations, health care fraud, money laundering, cryptocurrency-related investigations, sentencing proceedings, and complex trial matters.

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David Tarras Discusses Alleged $3.7B Medicare Fraud Case With CBS12 News

Tarras Defense Founding Attorney David Tarras recently spoke with CBS12 News about a major federal health care fraud case involving an alleged $3.7 billion Medicare fraud scheme that prosecutors say operated through a Delray Beach office.

According to CBS12, federal investigators allege that the case involved fraudulent billing for durable medical equipment through Medicare. The report noted that Ibrahim Khaldoon Hilmi, who has been accused of helping orchestrate the alleged scheme, was returned to South Florida after being arrested in Turkey.

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David Tarras Featured on The Litigator’s Path Podcast to Discuss AI, Trial Strategy, and Federal Criminal Defense

Tarras Defense founder David Tarras was recently featured on The Litigator’s Path podcast for a conversation about federal trial practice, artificial intelligence, and what it takes to defend a complex criminal case under extraordinary pressure.

In the episode, Tarras discusses his experience trying a 9-week federal fraud case as solo trial counsel against a government prosecution team that included three federal prosecutors, agents, and support staff. During trial, Tarras used AI as a litigation support tool to help process large volumes of overnight Jencks material, organize witness inconsistencies, draft responsive motions, and prepare demonstratives while continuing to handle every strategic and courtroom decision himself.

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David Tarras Named to 2026 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation

Tarras Defense is proud to share that founding attorney David Tarras has been selected to the 2026 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation for the second consecutive year.

The annual guide recognizes lawyers who are helping shape the future of the legal profession through their work, leadership, and impact. The 2026 edition includes attorneys from across the country who are making significant contributions in their respective practice areas.

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David Tarras Discusses Encrypted Messaging Apps and Federal Criminal Investigations on CBS12 News

Tarras Defense founder David Tarras recently appeared on CBS12 News (WPEC) to discuss a federal criminal case involving allegations that an encrypted messaging application was used to transmit and receive child sexual abuse material.

The case highlights a growing challenge in federal criminal investigations: the use of encrypted communications platforms and emerging technology. As messaging applications become more sophisticated, federal law enforcement agencies are devoting significant resources to understanding how these platforms operate, how digital evidence can be obtained, and how criminal activity conducted through encrypted channels can be investigated.

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Tarras Defense Secures Major Sentencing Variance in National Healthcare Fraud Prosecution

Tarras Defense secured a significant sentencing result this week in a major federal healthcare fraud prosecution involving allegations tied to cancer genetic testing and more than $124 million in intended loss.

Founding attorney David Tarras represented the client for nearly seven years through multiple federal investigations, parallel proceedings, and indictments in two separate federal districts. The government identified the client as the number two participant in the alleged conspiracy and sought a sentence driven by an advisory guideline range of 151 months.

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David Tarras Named “On the Rise” Honoree in 2026 Florida Legal Awards

Tarras Defense is pleased to share that founding attorney David Tarras has been named an “On the Rise” honoree in the 2026 Florida Legal Awards, presented by Daily Business Review and Law.com.

The “On the Rise” recognition highlights attorneys under 40 whose work is shaping the future of the legal profession. Tarras’s selection reflects his growing impact in complex white-collar defense and government investigations, as well as the strength of the practice he has built since launching Tarras Defense in 2025.

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David Tarras Publishes Law360 Article on Federal Fraud Enforcement and Sentencing Trends

Tarras Defense founding attorney David Tarras has published a new article in Law360 examining a significant shift in federal fraud enforcement and sentencing policy.

In Fraud Enforcement, Sentencing Face Unusual Convergence, Tarras analyzes how the federal government’s expansion of fraud investigations is unfolding alongside proposed changes to the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines that may reduce sentencing exposure in many white collar cases.

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David Tarras Provides Criminal Defense Analysis on CBS12 News Regarding Martin County Case

Tarras Defense founding attorney David Tarras was recently interviewed by WPEC-TV CBS12 News regarding a criminal case in Martin County that has generated significant public attention.

When incidents like this quickly become the subject of widespread media coverage, the public conversation often moves ahead of the legal process. Criminal cases move through a defined set of procedures that determine what evidence may be presented, what charges are appropriate, and how the case will ultimately be resolved in court.

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Stablecoin Regulation and Federal Enforcement: New Challenges for Digital Asset Oversight – Bloomberg Law

Bloomberg law

Stablecoin Oversight and the Limits of Regulatory Clarity

Stablecoins have rapidly moved from a niche digital asset into a central component of the global cryptocurrency ecosystem. Their growing role in payments, liquidity management, and cross-border transactions has drawn increasing attention from lawmakers and enforcement authorities.

In a recent article for Bloomberg Law, Tarras Defense founder David Tarras examines how the emerging regulatory framework for stablecoins may shape future investigations involving fraud, sanctions evasion, and large-scale cryptocurrency laundering.

While new legislation provides structure for the market, Tarras explains that statutory clarity does not eliminate enforcement risk.

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David Tarras Analyzes Supreme Court Ruling Limiting Federal Charge Stacking

Law 360 Double Jeopardy

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent unanimous decision in Barrett v. United States has important implications for federal criminal prosecutions and the limits of charge stacking.

In a new Law360 article, David Tarras examines how the Court reaffirmed core double jeopardy principles and rejected the practice of layering overlapping firearm charges arising from a single act. While the ruling focused on specific federal statutes, its reasoning reaches much further, reinforcing constitutional limits on cumulative convictions and prosecutorial leverage.

The decision arrives at a time of renewed emphasis on aggressive federal charging practices. As the Court made clear, overlapping statutes present prosecutors with a choice, not an invitation to stack charges.

Read article here.

What’s Next in Nicolás Maduro’s Case?

David Tarras was live in studio with WPEC-TV CBS12 News today to discuss what comes next as Nicolás Maduro is set to make his first appearance in federal court on narcoterrorism charges.

As David put it, this is “truly an unprecedented situation.” The initial proceedings will include the formal reading of charges and advisement of rights, with significant litigation expected over head of state immunity and other legal challenges tied to how Maduro was brought to the United States.

Link to the full CBS12 segment.

Florida Lawmakers React to U.S. Airstrikes, Capture of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro

Attorney David Tarras, commentary on Maduro case

David Tarras spoke with CBS 12 on the federal indictment involving Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Cases like this raise complex legal issues that go beyond the headlines, including jurisdiction, sovereign immunity, and how U.S. prosecutors pursue international narcotics and national security cases.

Watch the full segment.

Where Crypto Mixing Enforcement Is Headed From Here

Law360 - The Future of Crypto Enforcement

Law360 published a new article by founding attorney, David Tarras, examining where crypto mixing enforcement is headed and what the Tornado Cash verdict reveals about the DOJ’s evolving priorities.

The piece outlines the shift away from charging technical violations and toward cases that turn on intent, knowledge, and post knowledge conduct. It also highlights the government’s continued focus on national security, large scale fraud, and the aggressive use of forfeiture in digital asset cases.

For lawyers, compliance officers, and anyone advising clients in the crypto space, this analysis offers a clear look at the enforcement trends that will shape the next chapter of digital asset prosecutions.

Read the full article here.

Wound Care Fraud Investigations: What Healthcare Providers Need to Know

Law 360 Wound Care Fraud

Law360 Article published in collaboration with Jay McCormack, Partner at Verrill Dana LLP on October 29, 2025

The DOJ’s Expanding Focus on Wound Care Fraud

Federal enforcement agencies are intensifying their focus on Medicare and Medicaid billing for skin substitutes and amniotic wound care grafts — a sector that has seen explosive growth and mounting abuse. In 2025, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the largest healthcare fraud takedown in history, charging more than 300 defendants in schemes involving more than $14 billion in intended losses.

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David Tarras selected for 2025 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation guide

LawDragon - Next Generation

Founder David Tarras has been selected for the 2025 Lawdragon 500 X – The Next Generation guide — a national recognition of lawyers shaping the future of legal practice.

David’s inclusion reflects more than results. It speaks to the strategic approach he brings to every federal defense matter and his contributions to the evolution of the criminal bar.

At Tarras Defense, we focus on what’s next: emerging technologies, regulatory shifts, and the increasing complexity of federal enforcement.

5 Years In, COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Landscape Is Shifting

Law360 Covid 19 Fraud Enforcement

When Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act in March 2020, it put more than $2 trillion into the economy almost overnight.

The money came in many forms: Paycheck Protection Program loans for small businesses, Economic Injury Disaster Loan program working capital loans, Provider Relief Fund payments to healthcare systems and payroll support for airlines. The goal was simple: Keep businesses afloat and workers employed during lockdowns.

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NBA Sports Betting Indictment: What Federal Charges Really Mean

David Tarras commentary on NBA gambling.

Attorney David Tarras provides legal insight for CBS12 News

When the Department of Justice brings federal charges tied to sports betting or gambling, the implications go far beyond the game.

In the recent case involving NBA player Terry Rozier and others accused in a sports betting conspiracy, CBS12 News turned to David Tarras for expert legal analysis on how these cases unfold and what defendants can expect as the investigation continues.

Watch David’s full commentary here.

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