ACAMS Chicago Chapter August 2025 Double Session Learning Event: Stronger Together: Aligning Forces to Protect Victims and Disrupt Criminal Scam and Fraud Networks

Overview

Join us for an impactful double session that explores the growing threat of scams and the power of collaboration to fight back. This event will feature Delena D. Spann, Erin West, and Herb Mazariegos who will share insights into how these scams operate and what can be done to disrupt them. Through real-world examples and cross-sector perspectives, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape and walk away with actionable strategies to strengthen prevention, enhance response, and better protect victims. This event is proudly sponsored by BMO and Global Economics Group.

Session One: Behind the Curtain of Pig-Butchering Scams

Speaker: Erin West

In this compelling opening session, Erin West will delve into the alarming rise of pig-butchering scams which are sophisticated, global criminal operations that exploit both victims and trafficked laborers. Drawing from real-world casework and her investigative travels to Asia, Erin will break down how these scams function, from emotional manipulation and deceptive investment platforms to the laundering of illicit proceeds. Attendees will gain critical insights into the mechanics of these networks, how victims are lured and controlled, and what it takes to pursue justice across jurisdictions and borders.

Session Two: A United Front - Public and Private Sector Collaboration to Disrupt Scams

Speakers: Delena D. Spann, Erin West, and Herb Mazariegos

The second session will bring together an expert panel representing law enforcement, the financial sector, and advocacy to examine how collaborative action can disrupt scam networks and protect victims. Delena D. Spann, Erin West, and Herb Mazariegos will share cross-sector perspectives on how public-private partnerships are transforming the fight against frauds and scams. The discussion will spotlight how early detection, rapid response, advocacy along with awareness and education can reduce harm and deliver better outcomes for victims. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to enhance interagency coordination, adapt institutional defences, and how each one of us can help lead the charge in combating this rapidly evolving scam epidemic.

Agenda

Registration Opens: 1:00pm CT
Presentations Start: 1:45pm CT
Presentation Ends: 5:00pm CT
Close of event: 5:00pm CT
Networking Hour: Before and after the event

Venue

BMO Tower
320 S. Canal Street
Chicago, IL 60606

Paid parking lots nearby and in the BMO building, close to Union and Ogilvie Metra Train stations.