Housing and Community Development (HCD) Practice Exam

What action may the department take after an investigation?

1. Issue a subpoena duces tecum

2. Proceed with a criminal filing

3. Initiate a corpus delecti hearing

4. Issue a citation

The correct answer is: Proceed with a criminal filing

In the context of Housing and Community Development (HCD) investigations, the department has a range of actions it can take after completing an investigation. Choosing to proceed with a criminal filing indicates that the investigation has uncovered evidence sufficient to warrant criminal charges against an individual or entity. This action reflects a serious outcome of the investigation, typically suggesting that laws or regulations have been violated in a manner that the legal system needs to address through prosecution. This process typically follows the collection of substantial evidence during the investigation, which may include documentation, witness statements, or physical evidence suggesting illegal activities. The decision to proceed with a criminal filing underscores the department’s commitment to enforcing housing laws and maintaining community standards. While the other choices represent valid legal actions that can occur in different contexts, they do not directly align with the aftermath of an HCD investigation. Issuing a subpoena duces tecum relates to gathering evidence, initiating a corpus delecti hearing pertains to determining if a crime has occurred before prosecution, and issuing a citation often involves lesser offenses or regulatory compliance matters rather than criminal charges. Thus, in this context, proceeding with a criminal filing is the most appropriate response following a thorough investigation revealing significant violations.