New York Office of Investigations Lawyers

In New York City, the police department is not the only agency that has the authority to to carry out criminal investigations. There are also many other local, state, and federal organizations which can conduct criminal investigations. Some of these agencies may include:

Agencies with Investigation Authority

• The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
• The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF)
• The Office of the State Attorney General (OAG)
• The New York City Department of Investigations (DOI)
• The Office of the New York State Inspector General (OIG)
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development

These are only a few of the local, state, and federal agencies that have the authority to conduct a criminal investigation. And many of these agencies have overlapping authority during an investigation. Some of these agencies have a broad authority to conduct investigations on a wide range of offenses. And some of the agencies are more centered toward specific types of offenses.

The Danger of the “Wait-and-Hope” Approach

In New York, there are many individuals which are under the assumption that it is better to take a passive approach in the hopes that a prosecutor won’t file charges. However, this is a mistake which can lead to a an individual under investigation being charged. It is vital to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately if you feel that you could be the subject of an investigation.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

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Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You receive a call from someone identifying themselves as an investigator with the New York City Department of Investigation (DOI), stating they want to question you about procurement irregularities at the city agency where you work. They insist you come in for an interview within 48 hours and warn that failure to cooperate could result in termination and criminal referral.

Am I legally required to submit to an interview with the NYC Department of Investigation, and can they actually pursue criminal charges against me?

Attorney's Answer

The NYC Department of Investigation has broad authority under Chapter 34 of the New York City Charter to investigate city employees and contractors suspected of fraud, corruption, or other misconduct. While city employees generally have a duty to cooperate with DOI investigations, you have the right to retain counsel before any interview, and any statements compelled under threat of termination may be protected under the Garrity doctrine, meaning they cannot be used against you in a criminal prosecution. DOI regularly refers cases to the Manhattan District Attorney or federal prosecutors, so what begins as an administrative inquiry can quickly escalate into criminal charges under New York Penal Law or federal statutes. You should immediately consult with a criminal defense attorney experienced in government investigations before agreeing to any interview or providing any documents.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

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