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Donald E. Vilfer, J.D., CFE

www.vilferinvestigations.com

Donald Vilfer is an attorney, Certified Fraud Examiner and former Special Agent in charge of the FBI’s White Collar Crime Unit. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the investigation of fraud and his practice currently focuses exclusively upon investigative efforts throughout Northern California. He has conducted internal investigations of embezzlement and misconduct from beginning to end for government entities and publicly traded companies, assembling a final product relied upon by clients for employment action or referral for prosecution. He has extensive experience testifying in court, including as an expert witness. He is a frequent presenter to businesses and government groups on the topic of internal controls.

Professional Experience:

Vilfer & Associates, 2002 – present.
Practice emphasizes fact-finding in support of complex litigation, investigation of fraud, employment investigations, due diligence inquiries and systems security evaluations. Investigations conducted to facilitate civil litigation, criminal defense or referral for prosecution. Experience working for either plaintiff or defense counsel in providing consultation and conducting investigation for use at deposition or trial.

Perry-Smith LLP, 2001 – 2002, Senior Director, Litigation Support and Investigative Services Group.
Led the Litigation Support and Investigative Services practice area for Sacramento’s largest regional accounting firm. Supported attorneys in civil and criminal litigation involving clients from a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, banking, education, aerospace, real estate and government. Conducted investigations of fraud and oversaw the efforts of accountants supporting the investigations. Conducted speaking engagements on fraud to professional organizations within the banking, education and legal communities.

Federal Bureau of Investigation, 1986 – 2001, Supervisory Special Agent.
Conducted and oversaw the investigation of white collar crime and computer crimes. Oversaw investigations leading to successful prosecutions in the areas of securities fraud, bank fraud, intellectual property rights, computer crimes, money-laundering and bankruptcy fraud. Supervised the program responsible for the protection of national infrastructure computer systems. Attended specialized computer crimes training. Conducted investigations of employee misconduct.

At FBI Headquarters, Washington D.C., managed a team of professionals responsible for the on-site management of major cases and crisis worldwide on over 50 cases at venues from the White House to the Oklahoma City bombing command post. Led a project to develop a deployable software package to manage major cases.

While assigned as Special agent, Washington D.C. field office, conducted an investigation of an international multi-billion dollar bank fraud. Oversaw a team of agents and financial analysts responsible for gathering relevant evidence and tracing proceeds. Conducted investigation and asset tracking throughout the U.S., England, the Cayman Islands and Abu Dhabi. Also conducted investigation and Title III coverage of a group of police officers involved in drug and money-laundering.

As FBI Assistant Division Counsel, provided legal advice and instruction in criminal, civil, and employment law areas.

As an FBI case agent, achieved dozens of convictions for a variety of violations, including bank robbery, fraud, drugs and corruption. Testified regularly at Grand Jury proceedings, suppression hearings and trials. Received several awards and letters of commendation from each FBI Director under whom served. Received and provided specialized training in white collar crime, drugs, money-laundering and computer crimes.

Education:

Bachelor of Science, Criminal Justice/Pre-Law, Bowling Green State University, 1982.
Juris Doctorate, Ohio State University of Law, 1986.

Affiliations:

Member of the Ohio Bar (inactive status)
Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
Sacramento County Bar Association Associate Member
Arts and Business Council of Sacramento
Licensed Private Investigator (#PI23376)


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