U.S. Department
of Justice
Environmental Crimes Section
About the Section
The Environmental Crimes Section (ECS) brings criminal cases against individuals and corporations that have violated laws designed to protect the environment, worker safety, and animal welfare. The Section brings cases in all ninety-four federal judicial districts, provides advice and training to other prosecutors and investigators, and coordinates with ENRD’s Law and Policy Section on policy and legislative matters.
The Section works closely with Assistant U.S. Attorneys and criminal investigators from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Fish and Wildlife Service regarding violations of environmental statutes. The Section works closely with statutes including the Endangered Species Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Animal Welfare Act, and the Lacey Act.
General Information
- Protect our environment and natural resources, ensure the health and safety of our citizens, and safeguard animal welfare through criminal enforcement of the law.
- Prosecute and seek just punishment and remediation for those guilty of unlawful behavior.
- Provide leadership in investigating and deterring pollution, wildlife, animal welfare, and worker safety crime.
