Gov. Brad Little has instructed Director Salvador Cruz to assemble a statewide group examining financial fraud, with the panel scheduled to gather Nov. 17.

Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, U.S. Attorney John Shirts and Cruz will head the effort. Participants will include police agencies, prosecutors, financial institutions, advocates for seniors, state agencies and lawmakers.

The group will review Idaho’s current handling of fraud complaints and financial-crime cases, including whether organizations receiving reports are sharing information effectively. Its work will also cover possible statewide reporting procedures and more coordinated investigation and prosecution.

Fragmented Reporting System

Idaho has neither a single statewide database for fraud reports nor a dedicated statewide financial-crimes investigative unit. Reports can be made to the FBI, local police agencies, banks and credit unions, Adult Protective Services, and other entities.

Little said the state needs systems capable of responding to an increasing problem. “Financial fraud is a growing threat to Idaho families,” Little said.

The review will consider whether lawmakers or state agencies should provide new tools or funding to improve the response to fraud. Its assessment will be delivered to Little before the 2027 legislative session.

Older Idahoans Accounted for 42 Percent of Reported Losses

Idaho residents reported $88.7 million in fraud losses to the FBI during 2025, a 75 percent increase from 2023. People age 60 and older reported $37.4 million in losses, representing 42 percent of all reported statewide losses.

Reported losses among Idahoans 60 and older more than doubled between 2024 and 2025. Little said the working group will look for practical measures to protect Idahoans, with particular attention to older residents.