Failure to criminally prosecute corporations with records of harm, fraud and abuse is the rule rather than the exception. There are many reasons for this, most linked to either the lack of financial resources or the political will by prosecutors to challenge large, powerful companies. In addition, sanctions available to prosecutors, often civil fines, can amount to nothing more than slaps on the wrist for big corporations. For most victims of corporate crime, the civil justice system remains the only tool for holding accountable companies that recklessly cause harm. In addition to compensating victims, lawsuits can police the dangerous practices of individual companies or entire industries.
