Working Group forms to end corruption

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - United States Attorney Joseph Hogsett says in the past year, he's seen an increase in public corruption cases in Indiana.

That's why for the first time, state and federal law enforcement are teaming up, by forming the Public Corruption Working Group. make sure public officials are held accountable.

The U.S. Attorney's Office has pledged to make public corruption on of its top priorities.

This group will allow agencies to meet regularly to share information, working together for more effective investigations.

"If you have decided to make decisions that are in your own interests and not in the interests of the people who you've been elected to serve, you will be identified, you will be investigated, and if if appropriate, the United States Attorney's Office will prosecute you to the fullest extent of federal law," U.S. Attorney Joseph Hogsett said.

Agencies include Federal Bureau of Investigation, Indiana State Police, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Labor, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Department of Transportation, and U.S. Secret Service.
    
Hogsett says he also looks forward to working with local law enforcement and prosecutors.

The United States Attorney's Office created a public corruption hotline.

If you know of any criminal activity, you're encouraged to call (317) 229-2443.