Fraud, Waste, Abuse and Corruption

Purpose

To ensure the reporting of suspicion of fraudulent activity, Pickens County Schools provides employees, clients
and providers with confidential channels for such reporting.

Definitions

Fraud
A false representation of a matter of fact, whether by words, by conduct, or by concealment of that which should have been disclosed, that is used for the purpose of misappropriating property and/or monetary funds.
Waste
Waste means the thoughtless or careless expenditure, consumption, mismanagement, use, or squandering of resources. Waste also includes incurring unnecessary costs because of inefficient or ineffective practices, systems, or controls. Waste does not normally lead to an allegation of “fraud”, but it could.
Abuse
Abuse means the excessive, or improper use of something, or the use of something in a manner contrary to the natural or legal rules for its use; the intentional destruction, diversion, manipulation, misapplication, maltreatment, or misuse of resources; or extravagant or excessive use so as to abuse one’s position or authority. Abuse does not necessarily lead to an allegation of “fraud”, but it could.
Corruption
Corruption refers to those acts involving bribery, embezzlement, espionage, and smuggling.

Statement of Administrative Regulations:

Pickens County Schools thoroughly and expeditiously investigates and reports cases of suspected fraud to determine if disciplinary, financial recovery and/or criminal action should be taken.

Confidentiality

All reports of suspected fraud must be handled under the strictest confidentiality. Only those directly involved in the investigation should be provided with information regarding the allegation. Informants may remain anonymous but should be encouraged to cooperate with investigators and should provide as much detail and evidence of alleged fraudulent acts as possible.

Contact Information

If you suspect Fraud, Waste, Abuse or Corruption with use of federal funds, please contact the Director of Federal Programs at 706-253-1700.