Anti-Fraud Coalition (TAF) Annual Conference 2024

The Anti-Fraud Coalition's 24th Annual Conference, held from September 25 to 27, 2024, in Washington, D.C., is a premier event dedicated to advancing the mission of whistleblower advocacy and fraud prevention. Organized by the Anti-Fraud Coalition, the conference brings together legal professionals, whistleblowers, and government officials to discuss recent developments under the False Claims Act and other whistleblower laws.

Key topics covered during the conference included Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud, with a panel discussion led by Jason Marcus and experts Frank Amanat, James (Jeb) Bobseine, and Eric Benderson. This session explored ineligibility cases where borrowers failed to meet criteria, such as omitting affiliates in employee calculations or belonging to industries like marijuana companies. Another significant discussion focused on the Department of Justice’s Civil Cyber Fraud Initiative, targeting government contractors providing deficient cybersecurity products and services. Moderated by Julie Bracker, the panel featured Rachel Rose, Vince McKnight, and Chris Terranova, who covered key fact patterns in False Claims Act cases, such as false SPRS scores in Department of Defense databases.

The conference also honored several individuals for their contributions to the field. The 2024 John Phillips Leadership Award was presented to Jeb White, the organization's previous President & CEO, recognizing his exceptional leadership and commitment to the Anti-Fraud Coalition's mission. The 2024 “Honest Abe” Integrity in Government Award was bestowed upon Dan Fruchter, Chief of the Fraud & White Collar Crime Unit for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Washington, acknowledging his dedication to public service and False Claims Act enforcement. Additionally, the 2024 Lawyers of the Year Award was awarded to attorneys from Berger Montague and Reese Marketos for their work on notable cases, including United States ex rel. Penelow v. Janssen Products, LP, which resulted in a $150 million jury verdict for illegal off-label marketing of HIV/AIDS treatment drugs, and United States ex rel. Silver v. Omnicare, Inc., PharMerica Corp., et al., leading to a $100 million settlement for allegations of below-cost drug pricing practices.

The conference provided a platform for professionals to engage in meaningful discussions, share insights, and collaborate on strategies to combat fraud and support whistleblowers. It served as a vital gathering for those committed to upholding integrity and transparency within various sectors.