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 personal 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:
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“Fraud” is any activity that relies on deception in order to achieve a gain. Fraud becomes a crime when it is a “knowing misrepresentation of the truth or concealment of a material fact to induce another to act to his or her detriment” (Black’s Law Dictionary). If you act in a manner in order to deprive a person or organization of their money or property, you’re committing fraud.
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“Waste” is defined as the thoughtless or careless expenditure, mismanagement, or abuse of resources to the detriment (or potential detriment) of the U.S. government. Waste also includes incurring unnecessary costs resulting from inefficient or ineffective practices, systems, or controls.
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“Abuse” is defined as excessive or improper use of a thing, or to use something in a manner contrary to the natural or legal rules for its use. Abuse can occur in financial or non-financial settings.
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 email: hotline@rvaschools.net, email 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.