Section 489. Investigative Powers and Duties.--(a) In furtherance of the purposes set forth in this act to prevent, deter, investigate and prosecute persons who have committed or are committing fraud against assistance programs, the department may:
(1) Conduct investigations of all suspected criminal activities related to fraud, misuse or theft of moneys or benefits, or Federal food stamps, committed by persons who are or have been participating in, or administering programs of the department, or by persons who aid or abet others in criminal activity affecting welfare programs.
(2) Establish an investigations unit which shall have the power and duty to:
(i) investigate alleged violations of all criminal statutes related to fraud or other criminal activity connected with assistance programs administered by the department, except that suspected fraud or other criminal activity by medical providers or vendors will be investigated by State or Federal enforcement units having specific mandated authority; and
(ii) work in conjunction with the appropriate prosecuting authorities in the prosecution of cases where it is determined that evidence of criminal activity exists.
(b) The provisions of subsection (a) granting investigative authority to the department shall not prevent or interfere with the jurisdiction exercised by other law enforcement agencies in the investigation of welfare related violations.
(489 added Apr. 8, 1982, P.L.231, No.75)