ACCT 572 Week 4a Investigating Fraud Discussion
Investigating Fraud (graded)
How would you go about investigating the embezzlement fraud that happened in HHG Online Booksellers in Chapter 7, Case 6, on page 227? What investigative techniques would you use? How would you figure out who is your prime suspect?
Craig Ferguson, an internal auditor for HHG Online Booksellers, had been investigating a case of embezzlement fraud for nearly two months. After searching personnel and company records, visiting with former employees, employing invigilation tactics, and finally interviewing with several coworkers, Craig concluded that Lane Flemming, head of the shipping and receiving department, was involved in a large kickback scheme, costing the company hundreds of thousands of dollars. Finally, with evidence in hand, Craig met with Lane, presented his evidence, and steered Lane to confess that he was indeed the perpetrator.
1. Was the order of events in which Craig conducted his investigation in accordance with appropriate theft act investigative methods? Explain.
2. When investigating a case of fraud, why is it important to work inward toward the prime suspect, saving a confronting interview until the end of the investigation?
Please read Chapter 7, Case 7, on page 227. What is a vulnerability chart? How do we use one?
Case 7
A group of fraud examiners is coordinating an investigation at a local law firm. Several lawyers at the firm are suspected of overbilling clients, possibly creating fake client accounts, and then charging the firm for services performed for these fake clients. The fraud examiners begin preparing for the investigation by creating a vulnerability chart. Explain what a vulnerability chart is and how it can direct the fraud examiners in their investigation
Please read Chapter 8, Case Study 1, on page 249. As a fraud examiner, would you prefer documents over witnesses or witnesses over documents?
Case Study 1
John Doe, a fraud examiner, has been hired by ABC Corporation to investigate a shortage of cash, which management thinks is being caused by fraudulent behavior. John Doe could spend his time and money pursuing witnesses to the crime or collecting documents that would confirm fraudulent activities. As with most fraud examiners, he chooses to collect supporting documents instead of pursuing witnesses.
Explain why John and most other fraud examiners prefer documents over witnesses; then describe elements of good document care.
(an instructor response)
What are the various types of evidence? Which are the most reliable?