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Posted on December 22, 2025 in Federal Crimes
Finding out you’re under investigation for a federal crime is one of the most stressful situations a person can face. Federal agencies have extensive resources at their disposal and often keep their investigations secret until they believe they have enough evidence to prosecute. It means many people don’t realize they’re being targeted until it’s too late to avoid serious damage.
If you suspect that federal agents are investigating your activities, acting quickly is crucial. Here are six common signs of a federal investigation in Arizona, along with information on how you should respond to protect yourself.
One of the clearest signs is when agents from agencies like the FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, Homeland Security Investigations, or ATF reach out to you.
This might happen through:
You should not answer any of their questions without speaking to a criminal defense lawyer first. Anything you say can be used against you later.
Federal investigators often speak to people close to the target before approaching that person.
For example, they may question:
If people are being interviewed about you, there is a strong chance you are part of an ongoing investigation.
A subpoena is an official order requiring you to provide documents or testify before a federal grand jury. These subpoenas usually appear in cases involving fraud, racketeering, conspiracy, and other similar kinds of crimes.
Being subpoenaed does not necessarily mean you will be charged, but federal prosecutors rarely issue them unless they believe a serious offense has occurred.
Many people report signs like:
While not every odd occurrence is surveillance, federal agencies routinely conduct long-term monitoring of suspects before making their presence known.
Financial irregularities are often the first clue in investigations involving:
A bank’s fraud detection measures or sudden limitations on your accounts can indicate that investigators have issued requests for your financial records.
A target letter is one of the strongest indicators that federal charges are likely to be filed. This letter officially notifies you that prosecutors believe you have committed a crime and are preparing a case against you.
Target letters may invite you to testify or meet with prosecutors, but doing so without a lawyer is extremely risky.
If you notice one or more of these signs, take the situation seriously. The steps you take now can significantly impact your future
Consider the following:
Federal prosecutors move quickly, but you still have rights. A defense attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf and begin building a defense strategy while the case is still developing. They can also help prevent you from incriminating yourself, even if unintentionally.
If you believe you may be under federal investigation in Arizona, now is the time to act. Federal agencies pursue cases aggressively, and waiting until charges are filed can limit your options.
Speaking with a qualified Phoenix federal crimes attorney as early as possible can help protect your rights and position you for the best possible outcome. Call Orent Law Offices to schedule a free consultation today.
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorney Craig Orent. Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.
