Do you believe prosecution deals like deferred prosecution agreements are inadequate both as punishments and as rehabilitative efforts designed to promote compliance with big banks and other major corporations?

The prosecution of corporate crime is a high priority for the Department of Justice. By investigating allegations of wrongdoing and bringing charges where appropriate for criminal misconduct, the Department promotes critical public interests. These interests include, among other things: (1) protecting the integrity of our economic and capital markets by enforcing the rule of law; (2) protecting consumers, investors, and business entities against competitors who gain unfair advantage by violating the law; (3) preventing violations of environmental laws; and (4) discouraging business practices that would permit or promote unlawful conduct at the expense of the public interest. One of the most effective ways to combat corporate misconduct is by holding accountable all individuals who engage in wrongdoing. Such accountability deters future illegal activity, incentivizes changes in corporate behavior, ensures that the proper parties are held responsible for their actions, and promotes the public’s confidence in our justice system. Prosecutors have substantial latitude in determining when, whom, how, and even whether to prosecute for violations of federal criminal law (Discretion). Case in point, the 2008 crash of Wall Street that brought the country to the brink of a “Great Depression.” Over 400 Deferred Prosecution Agreements (NPAs) signed. No one goes to jail and no one ever gets prosecuted. Under a deferred prosecution agreement, the Justice Department allows corporations to pay a fine, then agree to some enhanced supervision and monitoring. Deferred prosecution agreements have become a mainstay of white-collar criminal law enforcement. ● Do you believe prosecution deals like deferred prosecution agreements are inadequate both as punishments and as rehabilitative efforts designed to promote compliance with big banks and other major corporations?