By John Bentivoglio and Jennifer Bragg (January 9, 2018, 4:26 PM EST) -- The pace of U.S. Department of Justice settlements with life sciences companies slowed in 2017, with nine companies resolving criminal or civil allegations under various federal health care fraud laws. While the lack of Senate-confirmed officials in key posts at DOJ headquarters and in numerous U.S. attorneys' offices likely contributed to the slowdown, a change in enforcement approach may also be at play. While the number of settlements was modest, three civil cases involved settlements exceeding $100 million and prosecutors continued to demand criminal pleas in cases involving serious misconduct. The question that remains is whether life sciences companies will face increased scrutiny in 2018 as Senate-confirmed U.S. attorneys in key districts (including Massachusetts) take the reins and address bipartisan concerns about drug pricing and improper sales and marketing practices....