Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announces launch of Public Corruption Unit

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier held a news conference on Thursday to announce the creation of a new unit within the Office of Statewide Prosecution.

The new Public Corruption Unit will be aimed identifying, investigating, and prosecuting corruption involving public funds and legislative appropriations, according to information provided by Uthmeier.

"Our office is launching this unit to ensure taxpayer dollars are used for the taxpayers' benefit – not special interests for political insiders or personal gain – we will expose and prosecute anyone using a position of public trust for personal benefit," Uthmeier said.

The Public Integrity Unit is expected to review legislative appropriations from the past two fiscal years, with a focus on fund distributed to nonprofits, non-government organizations (NGOs) and other entities that are receiving public benefits, according to Uthmeier.

The unit will be focusing on allegations involving, but not limited to, bribery, extortion, embezzlement and kickbacks to name a few.

The Public Corruption Unit will be led by Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Richard Mantei, who will serve as Special Counsel to the Attorney General for Public Integrity, according to Uthmeier.

Uthmeier said that the Office of Statewide Prosecution will coordinate with federal, state, and local partners to ensure thorough investigations and appropriate enforcement.

"When public funds are misused, the conduct may violate both state and federal law, making cooperation essential," Uthmeier said in a news release. "The U.S. Attorney's Office is at the ready to pursue federal charges if, and when, necessary."

The Public Integrity Unit is part of an ongoing effort to ensue "transparency, accountability, and lawful administration of taxpayer dollars."