An HSI Accolade for the Southern California Chapter

Could a strong partnership between law enforcement and the public sector be a key element in combating financial crimes?

In the case of the ACAMS Southern California Chapter, it certainly has been. Not only did the chapter establish a partnership with the Los Angeles Unit of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the relationship has been supported and dynamic. It is also appreciated by law enforcement, as evidenced by the inaugural program recognition bestowed upon the ACAMS Southern California Chapter for its Exemplary Non-Government Partnership by HSI Los Angeles. The Southern California Chapter was honored for its ongoing efforts in supporting the mission of HSI.

The award ceremony was held at the U.S. Coast Guard Base, in San Pedro, California, on October 28, 2020. Chairperson Liz Slim and co-chairperson Victor Cardona accepted the award on behalf of the ACAMS Southern California Chapter.

HSI is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It is responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, specifically criminal organizations that exploit the global infrastructure through which international trade, travel and finance move. HSI’s mission is to investigate, disrupt and dismantle terrorist, transnational and other criminal organizations that threaten or seek to exploit the customs and immigration laws of the U.S.

The HSI Special Agent in in Charge Los Angeles awards program was created to recognize the hard work and achievements of HSI employees as well as the exemplary local and worldwide partnerships that contribute to the Los Angeles’ office success. HSI recognized the ACAMS Southern California Chapter for its remarkable contribution to HSI Los Angeles and its investigative efforts in a variety of ways. The HSI nomination stated, “the partnership of ACAMS Southern California Chapter has been tireless, thoughtful and treasured.”

The following are some of the events and activities that the ACAMS Southern California Chapter completed in partnership with the HSI Los Angeles unit:

Annual events to speak about HSI’s efforts to combat human trafficking and human smuggling
Conducting financial fraud training at ACAMS Southern California Chapter events
Investigative efforts that have led to cases accepted for prosecution in the district
Promotion of the 1st Annual Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Crimes Conference hosted by HSI Los Angeles’ High Intensity Financial Crime Area (HIFCA) and HSI Los Angeles

The efforts of the ACAMS Southern California Chapter have truly assisted HSI Los Angeles and its financial investigation efforts to be a success.

Upon receiving the award, Slim said the following, “We are all humbled by the recognition. The chapter board and members recognize the critical importance of the continued valuable partnership and roles that we all play in assisting law enforcement in combatting financial crimes—domestic and abroad. The sharing of insights and guidance provided by law enforcement can only enhance our abilities to perform our jobs on a daily basis. We thank the HSI Los Angeles for this award and look forward to our continuous collaboration.”