Tom Simon Discusses Working Forensic Accounting for the FBI

What this episode covers

Retired FBI agent Tom Simon shares his experiences and insights from his 26-year career in the Bureau. He discusses his journey to becoming an FBI agent, the role of accountants and lawyers in the FBI, and his work in white collar crime, counterterrorism, and human trafficking. Tom also highlights the importance of undercover work and recounts a fascinating case involving a cruise ship murder. Overall, his career showcases the diverse and impactful work done by FBI agents in protecting national security and combating crime. Tom Simon, a former FBI special agent and current private investigator, shares insights into his career and the world of white-collar crime. He discusses investigating crimes on cruise ships, including the procedures and challenges involved. He also shares the story of the Stevie Wonder Blunder, a case involving a fraudulent concert at the University of Hawaii. Tom explains the threshold for FBI involvement in white-collar crime cases and the challenges of restitution for victims. He then discusses his transition to private investigation and the process of becoming a licensed private investigator in Florida. Tom also highlights the use of social media for marketing and his appearances on the TV show American Greed. Finally, he reflects on his FBI career and offers free consultations to those affected by financial fraud. Takeaways The FBI values the skills and backgrounds of accountants and lawyers, not for their specific expertise, but as a proxy for intelligence and problem-solving abilities. White collar crime encompasses a range of financial crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, and public corruption. Counterterrorism work involves investigating and disrupting the financing of terrorist organizations. Human trafficking is a complex and pervasive issue, and undercover work plays a crucial role in identifying and rescuing victims. The FBI’s work extends beyond traditional law enforcement, with agents often collaborating with other agencies and international partners to solve cases. Investigating crimes on cruise ships involves collecting evidence and statements from witnesses, as well as collaborating with other agencies and individuals involved in the case. White-collar crime investigations often require a significant financial loss for the FBI to get involved, but there are exceptions for cases involving government officials or other factors. Restitution for victims of white-collar crimes is often low, as the seized assets of the perpetrators may have been spent or are insufficient to cover the losses. Transitioning from the FBI to private investigation requires obtaining the necessary licenses and building a client base, often by leveraging previous experience and expertise. Social media can be an effective marketing tool for private investigators, allowing them to share insights, educate the public, and attract potential clients. Appearing on TV shows like American Greed can provide exposure and credibility for private investigators, helping to establish their reputation in the industry.

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