In 1998, the Orlando-based epoxy maker found its main bank account frozen after Impact traced a deposit back to its lone Colombian client. N.C. Impact seized its entire account after tracing cash deposits from a Colombian client to a Miami branch of Omega's bank. Almost two years later, officials agreed to return nearly all of the funds. Critics also say Impact is overreaching as it runs far-flung cases overseas and engages in money laundering on a scale virtually unheard of for a local operation. If not, you're creating as much crime as you're solving.
Accountability is also a concern.
When the DEA and FBI run undercover laundering cases, they must prepare inch-thick plans that are approved by the attorney general herself, with frequent reviews by special auditors. By contrast, Impact's oversight comes from a steering committee of state and local officials, with audits by the city of Coral Gables. Butler attributes all the flack against Impact largely to turf battles among rival agencies. Still, concerns have mounted to the point where the DEA and Customs Service in Miami will no longer work with Impact, and the Justice Department is conducting a review. Depending on the outcome, the inquiry could halt federal participation with the group entirely.