The Growing Need
According to the Federal Trade Commission, fraud losses topped $10 billion in 2023, a 14% increase over 2022. Only a small number of fraud cases are prosecuted and/or recovered. We are here to help right this injustice.
History of the JVFP
The Justice for Fraud Victims Project (JFVP) began at Gonzaga University in 2010 as a collaborative that brings together college students and faculty, law enforcement, and experts in fraud prevention and examination to provide pro bono services to those affected by financial fraud. This is especially important when the cost of forensic investigations is too high or such services are not available. Guided by experienced professionals, college students investigate to find out if and how fraud happened, and measure the financial impact to support legal cases. This gives students practical experience in financial forensic analysis
Benefits
For Law Enforcement
The JFVP greatly assists law enforcement by managing resources for departments with many cases, helping prepare cases for district attorneys, and improving investigations with the help of students. It builds trust in the police within the community, helps victims heal, and makes legal cases stronger. The project’s success in finding fraud has also led to legal convictions, improving the ability of law enforcement to fight financial crimes.
For Students
Students perform detailed analyses to discover how frauds were carried out and to precisely calculate the financial damage. Their work is vital in providing justice for the victims and in giving students valuable professional skills. Through the JFVP, students learn to deal with the challenges of forensic accounting, create investigative strategies, and make significant contributions to legal processes. Students finish the program not only with technical skills but also as caring professionals ready to make a positive impact in the world.
For Victims
The JFVP offers essential forensic accounting services to fraud victims at no cost, which helps them take legal action against those responsible. It helps victims find financial errors, supports legal cases by calculating the financial loss, and provides a sense of community support and resolution. This project not only helps recover stolen funds but also raises awareness and helps prevent financial fraud.