Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
Our objective is to provide RPS employees and the general public a confidential means for reporting suspected wrongdoing involving fraud, waste, and/or abuse of school assets and resources. Violations include, but are not limited, to the following:
- Theft or misuse of school funds or property.
- Records falsification (such as personnel records, time and attendance, or procurement.)
- Abuse of authority or using position for person gain.
- Receiving kickbacks.
- Corruption and bribery.
What is fraud, waste, and abuse?
According to the Code of Virginia, fraud, waste, and abuse are defined as:
- "Fraud" means the intentional deception perpetrated by an individual or individuals, or an organization or organizations, either internal or external to Richmond Public Schools, that could result in a tangible or intangible benefit to themselves, others, or the locality or could cause detriment to others or the locality. Fraud includes a false representation of a matter of fact, whether by words or by conduct, by false or misleading statements, or by concealment of that which should have been disclosed, which deceives and is intended to deceive.
- "Waste" means the intentional or unintentional, thoughtless or careless expenditure, consumption, mismanagement, use, or squandering of resources owned or operated by the locality to the detriment or potential detriment of the locality. Waste also includes incurring unnecessary costs because of inefficient or ineffective practices, systems, or controls.
- "Abuse" means the excessive or improper use of something, or the employment 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 owned or operated by the locality; or extravagant or excessive use so as to abuse one's position or authority
How to report fraud, waste, and abuse complaints?
If you are unsure how to proceed with a concern, you may contact us during normal business hours at 804-780-7882 for guidance prior to calling the hotline or sending the fraud, waste, and abuse complaint via email.
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By phone:The fraud, waste, and abuse hotline at 804-775-2255 may be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is a voicemail box and only responds to outside calls. You may leave a message.
- By e-mail: hotline@rvaschools.net, e-mail is not anonymous.
What will happen after you report?
We take all complaints and reports seriously, and will make every effort to investigate the reports, according to the applicable laws, codes, policies, or regulations. You can assist us in our investigation by providing as much information as possible.
You are encouraged to leave your contact information to enable us to gather or clarify information as needed. If you choose to remain anonymous, ensure that you provide thorough and detailed information to enable a review of your complaint.