Investigations

Process

OI is a federal law enforcement entity with jurisdiction to investigate any matter with a nexus to the Department of Commerce’s programs and operations, which include investigating employees of the Department and its bureaus, as well as awardees, grantees, contractors, and anyone else with an identifiable connection to Commerce-related activities or funds.

OI investigations can include criminal, civil, and administrative matters. Generally, an investigation is carried out to resolve specific allegations, complaints, or information concerning possible violations of law, regulation, or policy. The office refers investigative results to the Department of Justice or state/local prosecutors for consideration of criminal prosecution or civil enforcement and to the Department and its bureaus for administrative or other appropriate action.

People

OI is a multidisciplinary team of professionals comprised of investigators, special agents, forensic accountants, investigative analysts, investigative auditors, digital forensic experts, and professional support staff. OI staff are located in the DC area and around the country to further its mission.

Authority

OI derives its investigative and law enforcement authority from the Inspector General Act of 1978, as amended (“IG Act”). The IG Act grants statutory law enforcement authority to special agents of the OIG, who are trained, accredited, and sworn federal law enforcement officers, bearing authority to carry firearms, execute warrants, serve subpoenas, seize evidence, and make arrests for offenses against the United States.

Priorities

While OI has broad authority to investigate any matter with a nexus to the Department of Commerce’s programs and operations, OI places particular emphasis on investigating the following:

• Contract and grant fraud. OI investigates fraudulent activity related to grant awards made by Commerce operating units as well as contracts entered into by the Department and its operating units.
• Egregious employee misconduct. OI investigates or assists the Department in handling employee misconduct involving Commerce funds and programs. These cases cover a wide range of improper behavior—from misusing one’s official position to stealing government property—that may warrant administrative sanction or criminal prosecution.