April 11, 2013 — Under the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), it is a crime to solicit business in a foreign country by paying any kind of bribe to a foreign official or the official’s family members. Many companies view bribe-making as a necessary evil in order to conduct business in countries where anti-corruption efforts are lax. Multi-national companies may pressure their employees either to participate in the corruption or to stay silent about it. Despite the risk, more and more conscientious employees are refusing to look the other way.
Panasonic Avionics Receives Subpoena Concerning Possible FCPA Allegations
Panasonic Avionics, a unit of the Japanese Panasonic Corporation, is being investigated by U.S. authorities for possible FCPA violations, Reuters reports. Panasonic Avionics, based in Lake Forest, California, produces in-flight communication and entertainment systems.
U.S. government officials are investigating whether the unit paid bribes to government officials and airline employees in foreign countries as a means to winning more business. In the original story printed by the Wall Street Journal, it was reported that the company had been subpoenaed for its communications with consultants and others. The subpoena also sought documents concerning payments by Panasonic Avionics to airline employees and foreign government officials. After receiving the subpoena, the company is said to have notified employees and executives in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Inside Tipsters Notify SEC of Foreign Bribery Scams
Inside tipsters who work with the SEC when companies engage in foreign bribery may be entitled to financial compensation under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act) of 2010. FCPA collaborators are guaranteed certain legal rights under Dodd-Frank. The experienced lawyers with Waters & Kraus provide vital legal representation for company insiders who notify the government about foreign bribery scams. We work to safeguard your legal interests and advance your rights. Contact us or phone our whistleblower attorneys at 800.226.9880 to discuss our anti-corruption practice.
