Scoular FCPA Case: Unanswered Questions and the Cartel Connection

The Scoular FCPA enforcement action, involving bribes to Mexican agriculture inspectors that allegedly benefited drug cartels, raises critical questions for internal audit and assurance professionals. The ongoing secrecy surrounding key case documents (criminal information and deferred-prosecution agreement) suggests broader investigations, potentially linking corporate corruption with drug trafficking. This intersection significantly alters risk assessments and compliance strategies, particularly for global companies operating in regions with high cartel activity.