US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)Division of Enforcement. A federal case for securities fraud typically begins with an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).In its regulatory role, the SEC has legal authority to compel production of records and other disclosures, enjoin market activity, and seek civil penalties such as fines. These functions are civil in nature and, as such, do not implicate a penalty of imprisonment for a violation of securities laws. However, the SEC can refer any alleged violation of securities laws over to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal prosecution.