Chris Hartsel

I specialize in forensic accounting, fraud detection, and financial investigations, combining expertise in data analytics, process automation, and cybersecurity. My work has exposed multimillion-dollar fraud schemes, public corruption cases, and money laundering operations, using advanced forensic techniques to trace illicit financial flows.

What excites me most about forensic investigations isn’t just solving puzzles — it’s developing better ways to solve them. I believe in reinventing processes as an ongoing cycle of improvement, refining investigative techniques to work smarter and faster. Whether it’s designing VBA-driven automation tools that reduce manual labor, creating custom data models to detect hidden fraud patterns, or streamlining forensic workflows, my focus is on innovation that enhances problem-solving efficiency. My expertise spans forensic accounting, financial investigations, and high-stakes litigation support. Having spent nearly a decade as a forensic accountant for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), I’ve provided expert testimony and forensic reports in major fraud cases, including federal RICO trials. I’ve analyzed billions of dollars in financial data, exposed major fraud schemes, and built automation tools that revolutionized investigative workflows.

A unique aspect of my perspective comes from the time I spent living in Japan. Immersing myself in a different culture reshaped how I think about conflict, problem-solving, and human behavior. Forensic accounting isn’t just about numbers — it’s about understanding how and why people make decisions, especially under pressure. My experience studying and working in a culture where indirect communication, long-term thinking, and social harmony play a crucial role has given me an added dimension in investigative work. I’ve learned to approach conflicts with patience, see patterns beyond the obvious, and recognize that fraud often isn’t just about financial opportunity — it’s deeply tied to human motivations and cultural context. This ability to interpret fraud risk through a broader cultural and psychological lens strengthens my investigative approach and has helped me navigate complex disputes and fraud cases.

Beyond investigations, I have a passion for training and mentorship, regularly educating forensic accountants, fraud examiners, and financial professionals on forensic techniques, fraud detection, and Excel automation. I believe in continuous learning and in sharing knowledge that makes investigations more effective. My work has helped streamline forensic methodologies, improve fraud detection efficiency, and enhance the ability of organizations to safeguard against financial crimes.

I’m a certified public accountant (CPA), a certified fraud examiner (CFE), and hold information security certifications, including GSEC and Comptia Security+. I earned a B.B.A. from Ohio University.

Before kids, I enjoyed studying Japanese, watching movies, and producing music. Now I spend most of my time outside of work picking up toys and cleaning up after my young children, Gavin and Asher.