Trump Names Federal Prosecutor to Lead Anti-Fraud Drive

President Donald Trump has appointed veteran federal prosecutor Colin MacDonald to head a newly created National Fraud Enforcement division at the US Department of Justice, in a move aimed at cracking down on large scale fraud targeting federal programs.

According to the news outlet Newsmax, Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform that MacDonald is a tough and highly respected federal prosecutor who supports an America First approach. He said the new role will focus on stopping what the administration describes as widespread theft of taxpayer money.

Trump said his administration has uncovered fraud schemes in several states, including Minnesota and California, involving the alleged misuse of hundreds of billions of dollars in public funds. He said MacDonald’s appointment is part of a broader effort to end fraud and restore integrity to federal programs.

MacDonald has held several senior positions since 2014, including deputy assistant attorney general and federal prosecutor in Southern California and Hawaii. He has built a strong reputation in corruption cases, including the conviction of former Honolulu police chief Louis Kealoha, his wife and two police officers in a case involving fabricated charges against a relative to conceal the theft of $148,000, later used to fund luxury purchases and travel.

Vice President JD Vance and Attorney General Pam Bondi praised MacDonald’s experience and leadership, saying he is well suited to lead federal efforts to dismantle fraud networks and recover stolen funds.

Former US attorney for Southern California Robert Brewer described MacDonald as a professional public servant and a courageous prosecutor with the highest ethical standards, saying his expertise has been crucial in handling complex corruption cases.

MacDonald’s appointment still requires confirmation by the US Senate. The administration said details of the new division’s precise powers and responsibilities are still being finalized, but it will oversee nationwide efforts to pursue fraud cases across the United States.