Once you know who is likely to be targeted, the next question is who does the investigating. For New York City recipients, it's almost always the Bureau of Fraud Investigations (BFI).
Who the BFI is
The BFI is part of the Human Resources Administration and employs dozens of fraud investigators. They aren't police detectives, but they are trained to conduct investigations, collect evidence and testify in court.
The BFI isn't a law enforcement agency. It does work closely with law enforcement, including the District Attorneys' offices, the NYC Department of Investigation and the New York Attorney General's Office, and sometimes with federal agents.
Besides Medicaid, the BFI investigates SNAP (food stamp) fraud, housing and Section 8 fraud, and other fraud committed against HRA.
What happens after your case is flagged
The BFI runs a full investigation. At the end of it, investigators send you a letter asking you to come in and speak with them.
Don't underestimate the BFI. Even though they aren't police, talking to BFI investigators can have the same effect as talking to the police. Cases get referred to criminal court because people spoke to investigators without a lawyer.
If you receive an interview letter from HRA, call us at (212) 577-6677 before you respond.