Administrators and managers must overcome the inherent risks faced by local governments and implement effective controls to offset:
Prevention plans reduce the fraud risk, but your agency may still be victimized by rogue employees and unscrupulous vendors. When you fear that something is amiss, or you’ve received an allegation of fraud, consider having a protocol already in place as a guide to help navigate troubled waters.
Having a protocol in place, one created with insight and forethought, eases the burden of decision-making during crunch time when tensions are high and political influences demand quick responses. Download our Fraud Incident Management Protocol below.
A key part in the protocol is selecting the decision-makers who can evaluate the credibility of any allegations received and, if necessary, put a process in motion to investigate the allegation. Keep in mind that your staff may not have the knowledge, ability, or resources to conduct an internal investigation. Consider a professional forensic investigator and a computer forensic specialist to assist in properly preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses and the subject of the investigation, and evaluating evidence independent of any outside influences or conflicts of interests.
There are also other concerns, including:
Since local governments are susceptible to being victimized by fraud, handling a fraud incident professionally and responsibly with a thought out plan can protect your agency’s reputation and prevent legal liabilities that arise when incidents are mishandled. Contact our team of experienced forensic investigators for more information on protecting your local government.
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