Ripped from the headlinesmight describe Joe Houchin’s white collar criminal defense practice and government investigations at Kaufman & Canoles – CARES Act/COVID Fraud, election and campaign violation, hemp law and health care fraud.
He has been involved in criminal defense cases ranging from allegations of fraud by contractors and theft by military personnel. He said that contractors and procurement officers must adhere to strict rules. A misstep could lead to criminal charges of theft of government property, or other procurement fraud.
CARES Act Fraud
Houchin said that the federal government will spend a great deal of time investigating [CARES Act] crimes, uncovering them, and prosecuting them.
The government has been defrauded by an estimated $280 billion of the $4.2 trillion CARES Act stimulus package. This included the Paycheck Protection Program, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and Economic Impact Payments.
“In the near future, The DOJ is going to focus on rooting-out instances of egregious fraudulent acts like taking out PPP loans for a company which didn’t even exist or buying Ferraris and other luxury items. These are the easiest cases.”
Separately some companies, and even lenders themselves, may experience unintentional problems with compliance due to unclear eligibility rules and applications. Houchin has first-hand knowledge of the complex process and can help clients who are under investigation. “My experience is exactly what small business owners have to go through when trying to navigate these regulations and figure out compliance, especially when the rules are vague or ill-defined.”
Election Fraud and Campaign Finance Violations
Houchin is expecting to be very busy in 2023-2024 with campaign finance and election related issues if the recent elections are any indication. State Board of Elections usually is responsible for the initial investigation of all election-related matters. This can range from fraudulent voting to campaign finance infractions. SBE may refer criminal cases to prosecution if they suspect wrongdoing.
Houchin stated that “increasingly, however the complaints are political.” It’s not only investigators who stumble upon wrongdoing. It is possible to file complaints in the hope that your opponents will face criminal charges or an investigation. Just because something is politically motivated doesn’t mean that it’s criminal. “It’s important to understand everyone’s motives in these cases.”
Video Gaming & Hemp
Houchin helps business owners who are in the video game and hemp industries. He said, “These are the ‘vices’ I practice.” “Skill-games” are included in video gaming, where a player’s skill can make the difference between legal and illegal gambling.
Houchin said that the difference between criminal activity and legitimate business is razor-thin. North Carolina is considering a model of regulation for video gaming machines, which, if implemented, would help legit businesses comply with regulations and root out criminals.
Athlete’s Eye View
Houchin, who grew up Raleigh, earned a Juris Doctor at the University of Mississippi as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from George Mason University. Houchin, who was on scholarship at Mason University, served as captain of the swimming team.
He gained a unique perspective as a student athlete when he established the sports and entertainment group at Kaufman & Canoles. Houchin’s practice focuses on NCAA enforcement and compliance issues, as well as Name Image and likeness (NIL).
Houchin said, “Everyone is focused on NIL. Everyone wants to sign deals and get paid.” People have forgotten that this still requires strict enforcement. Compliance issues can affect the school, athlete, booster, or collective. All of these groups may require an attorney who has experience in handling government investigations.
Calling the Call
Houchin said, “I enjoy being the guy that gets called when someone faces the biggest problem of their life.” “The risks are very high.” The risks are real. They can affect a company’s bottom-line or even its survival. These cases can have real-life consequences. You’re often talking about someone’s potential imprisonment and loss of liberty.
It’s an honor and a privilege to be able to work with this person to solve the problem. “It’s one of the reasons I look forward to going to work each day.”
The article Joe Houchin – Ripped from the Headlines first appeared on Attorney at Law Magazine.