Page 191 - Deception at work all chapters EBook

192 Deception at Work

Table 5.12 A simple resolution plan

Ref Location Aspect Priority Action Man Action required
No by days
7
12 3 4 56 Interview Smith and Co (Vendors).
Obtain documents and statement
1 Birmingham Jones 2 JEF 1 Observation on XYZ and CO to
check deliveries and goods inwards
2 London SW1 Jones 1 ABC 2 procedure
KLM

3 XXX Smith

Column 6 (Man days) enables budgets to be controlled. The table can be sorted by location, priorities etc.

The first step is critical. If the dishonesty is still continuing or is likely to be repeated,
determine where and when the first step could be taken to catch the suspects in an act, with
their pants down and backsides exposed, for which they cannot provide any plausible excuse.
For example:

• while handling stolen goods or converting funds;
• while accessing premises or computer systems without authority;
• while involved in an obvious breach of procedures or deviation from honest practice;
• through pre-emptive legal actions, such as civil search and seizure orders.

It is much easier for the victim to seize the initiative if the fraud is continuing or might be
repeated. If the problem is not continuing, plan how and when the first step can be taken with
the maximum element of surprise:

• when the suspects can be kept apart and are unable to collaborate over their explanations:
this is very important;

• when important records, computer and communication systems can be secured.

Review the resolution plan and decide upon the actions that should be taken simultaneously;
remember international time differences. Simultaneous actions might include interviews
with other suspects or witnesses, third-party audits or site visits.

Remember, make the first step a knockout blow.

Determine your objectives

You should always decide what your objectives are before conducting any important investi-
gation. In all cases, the initial goal is to find the truth and then to consider:

• Disciplinary action: You should make sure that any proposed action is permitted under local
laws. But remember that taking a soft line against dishonesty is always counter-productive.
It is also true that most cases of alleged unfair dismissal are no more than a ruse to weaken
the victim organization’s resolve, so do not take a soft line; where necessary select experi-
enced litigation lawyers to assist you.