The Criminal Division

The Criminal Division is responsible for prosecuting individuals and organizations for violations of federal laws. Criminal AUSAs handle some of the most complex and consequential cases in the federal system, working every day to protect the safety, rights, and security of the communities we serve. As the largest division in the district, criminal prosecutors are stationed in each of our four offices to ensure broad coverage and rapid response to every region in South Carolina.

The Criminal Division is organized into three sections, each with a specialized mission:

Major Crimes Section This section focuses on prosecuting violent crimes, firearms violations, violations of immigration laws, and narcotics offenses. Prosecutors work closely with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to identify and bring to justice the most dangerous offenders who threaten public safety. Through coordinated initiatives, we target violent criminals and support efforts to reduce violence in our communities.

White Collar, Child Exploitation, and Human Trafficking Section This section investigates and prosecutes financial fraud, healthcare fraud, public corruption, human trafficking, and crimes involving the exploitation of children. These cases often involve sophisticated schemes and vulnerable victims, and our prosecutors work diligently with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of public institutions, safeguard taxpayer resources, and defend those who cannot defend themselves.

Narcotics and Organized Crime Section This section leads proactive investigations into criminal organizations, including gangs and large‑scale narcotics traffickers. Prosecutors collaborate with federal task forces and other partners to dismantle drug trafficking networks, disrupt organized crime, and address emerging threats identified by the Homeland Security Task Force.

If you need to report a federal crime, click here for avenues to report.