What is the purpose of the Fraud Hotline?
The Fraud Hotline is designed to give you a way to anonymously report any suspected fraud or abuse for an independent review.

Who operates the Fraud Hotline?
The internal auditor administers the hotline. The city has contracted  Lighthouse Services to screen fraud tips, validate and organize complaints while maintaining the anonymity of the tip providers

Why should you contact the Fraud Hotline?
Fraud, waste or abuse in our local government hinders the effectiveness of the services provided and affects all of us as taxpayers and employees.

How is my identity protected when using the Fraud Hotline?
You are not required to provide personal information . The phone lines are available 24 / 7.  Reports may be provided on line in English or by phone.  Spanish complaints must be done by phone.

When should a fraud tip be reported?
The tip should be reported as soon as possible.  Remember that the longer you wait since the incident occurred, the more difficult it becomes to investigate.

What information do I provide on a fraud tip?
The more information you can provide, the more effective the investigation. you should provide the following information on the tip:  

• Description of the incident
• Agency, Department, or person (s) involved
• Identify any records or support and where located
• Provide dates, times, names, and places

What should be reported and what should not be reported on a fraud tip?
Do not report general complaints, suggestions, or personnel issues.  Only report material instances of fraud, waste, and abuse  that you have witnessed.  Some examples are as follows:

• Use of City-owned vehicles , equipment, or supplies for personal gain
• Violation of City procurement policy
• Excessive or unnecessary purchases
• Falsifying of official documents (absentee forms, travel forms, time sheets, invoices, receipts)
• Inappropriate use or spending of City dollars
• Official misconduct, conflict of interest or accepting bribes

What happens after a fraud tip is received?
After a tip is received , it is screened by this office for a possible investigation. If an investigation is performed and fraud, waste or abuse is found, management and the audit committee will be informed. Corrective action will be taken.  This office will issue an audit report with recommendations to strengthen control weaknesses that allowed the incident to take place.

What do I need to submit a report?
Reports or tip may be submitted by clicking on the links provided. This link will take you to Lighthouse's web page where you will need a  Login Name and Password.  These can be obtained in the City's Intranet under this same page or by calling the internal auditors office at ext. 5109. Other actions constituting fraud and should be reported  

• Any dishonest or fraudulent act
• Misappropriation of funds, securities, supplies or other assets
• Impropriety in the handling or reporting of money or financial transactions
• Profiteering as a result of insider knowledge of City activities
• Disclosing confidential and proprietary information to outside parties
• Accepting or seeking anything of material value from contractor, vendors, or persons providing services/materials to the city
• Unauthorized destruction, removal or inappropriate use of records, furniture, fixtures and equipment