[JURIST] Seventy-eight people have been charged with bankruptcy fraud and related counts as a result of a nationwide federal law enforcement sweep entitled "Operation Truth or Consequences," a top US Department of Justice (DOJ) [official website] official announced [press release] Wednesday. Deputy Attorney General Paul J. McNulty [official profile] said the charges arose out of 18 separate cases of bankruptcy fraud and involve the use of fake Social Security numbers, concealment of more over $3M in assets, and other unlawful acts. Explaining that the sweep was vital, he observed that "bankruptcy fraud is often the tip of the criminal iceberg, and that makes these prosecutions so important."

"Operation Truth or Consequences" is a partnership investigation and enforcement program joining the DOJ, FBI, IRS, and other federal organizations. CNN has more.