Federal bankruptcy and prosecution officials met in Albany last week to discuss criminal referrals, information sharing and ways to streamline investigations of suspected bankruptcy fraud.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone III met Aug. 25 with U.S. Trustee William Harrington and Assistant U.S. Trustee Erin Champion, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York.
The U.S. Trustee Program oversees the administration of bankruptcy cases and can refer suspected crimes to federal prosecutors and investigative agencies.
Officials said the meeting focused on improving coordination when bankruptcy filings or related financial records suggest fraud. They also discussed how agencies can exchange information more efficiently.
Sarcone said closer cooperation can help protect the integrity of the bankruptcy system. Harrington said referrals and follow-up work are central to detecting abuse.
The announcement did not identify a specific pending investigation or charge connected to the meeting.
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