Welcome

The CFCIA is an association composed of investigators from various private companies, financial institutions, and law enforcement agencies whose occupational assignment is the investigation and prosecution of financial crimes.

The organization was formed in 1951 when a number of investigators recognized a need for a common meeting place where law enforcement and industry representatives could compare notes on suspects or problems plaguing both groups. They felt showcasing current financial crimes problems could further investigation and enhance the likelihood of criminal prosecution, thereby preventing additional losses to the business community. Their belief was well founded as witnessed by the growth of this vital organization throughout the years.

President's Message:

On behalf of the 2011-2012 State Board, I welcome all of you; the men and women of the California Financial Crimes Investigators Association, to another year in our continued mission of facilitating the methods and procedures used to suppress any and all financial crimes. Although we've had successes this past year, challenges are ahead for us that'll take our combined efforts to overcome.

Before I continue, I'd like to acknowledge past President Jesus Gaona for his guidance of our Association this past year. His leadership and commitment to CFCIA has been exemplary and a benchmark for future Presidents. Board members David Contreras, Bob Niderost and Ed Whyte also worked tirelessly for the benefit of this organization and their devotion to CFCIA is much appreciated.

Lastly, a "Thank You" to our State Board's Division Presidents, their Trustees; as well as our Appointed Positions: Recording Secretary Javier Prado, Legislative Chair Sean Smith and Legal Advisor Randolph C. Houts. Without these individuals assuming CFCIA responsibilities aside from their regular employment, the goals of CFCIA could not be met.

One of our successes in 2011 was the resurrection of our Annual Statewide Training Conference held this year in Monterey, CA; after a two year absence. The challenge of hosting this conference fell upon our Northern Division; facilitated by Division President Anthony DeMarinis and his committee members. They hosted an educational and entertaining conference—much needed for the psyche of CFCIA. Many thought that a Statewide Conference in these troubling economic times could not and should not be undertaken. Northern Division thought differently and worked tirelessly to show us that our annual conference could be produced and would be beneficial to CFCIA.

But even with this success came troubling news at this conference: Our statewide membership has decreased every year since 2007; which now stands at 305 (vs. 683 in '07). Of that 305: 88 are Law Enforcement, 191 are Private Sector and 26 are Retired. These numbers, more specifically, Law Enforcement's lack of participation in CFCIA is most troubling to me and will be the focus of this year's Board to rectify. CFCIA was founded in 1953 by Law Enforcement. Their resources are invaluable to all of us and my question is why they (as well as others) have abandoned CFCIA?

This membership problem will not be rectified by this year's Board alone. It will take our remaining members to remedy this trend. In the near future I'll provide you with member ideas for solving this and other CFCIA problems. Review and discuss these ideas with your State Board representatives; give your ideas and participate in this organization so that it may thrive and continue to benefit the victims of financial crimes.

Rudy Santa Cruz
President
2011-2012