Most of the 1,000 or so delegates of this week’s annual IASIU seminar are probably back at their desks today after a few days of learning, networking and losing money in Las Vegas. I always look forward to this conference because it’s one of a few where you can take the temperature of the ground troops in the battle against insurance fraud.

The insurance investigators I met there seemed to be upbeat and optimistic about the future, much more than in recent years. Perhaps it was the location — Cesar’s Palace — or just the opportunity to see old friends, but the delegates I talked with generally reported their units were doing well and they seemed to be secure in their jobs.

With insurers reporting record profits, the pressure on SIUs to cut expenses likely has lessened, and that ultimately should increase anti-fraud activities over the next few years.

The solid attendance at this meeting, combined with a sold-out exhibition hall, suggests the fraud-fighting business is thriving.

At the opening general session, outgoing president Dan Fitzgerald recognized the coalition for its partnership with IASIU over the years. Dan — and his infamous sense of humor — will be missed. IASIU will be in capable hands as Dave Rioux of Erie Insurance takes over the reins of a vital and healthy association.

This conference had a lot of positive energy and many impressive aspects — from the quality of the sessions to hearing the Nevada attorney general speak to the distribution of a convention daily newspaper that was well-written and professionally produced.

Also impressive was the donation of $10,000 to a local domestic abuse shelter that was presented during Monday’s general session. The money was raised from a golf tournament held last weekend, and says a lot about this organization and its members.