Overview

The Investigations Section conducts investigations to detect, deter, prevent, and eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and its contracted providers, whether contracted directly or through another provider. These activities are required by Florida law ( §20.055(7), Florida Statutes ), which requires the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to conduct investigations and related inquiries independently and without impairment. The OIG investigates allegations of serious misconduct, including falsification of client home visits, fraud, waste, abuse by employees or providers, and allegations of sexual harassment.

Accreditation

The Investigations Section was the first state agency OIG to become accredited by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA).  Accreditation is a coveted achievement symbolizing professionalism, excellence, and competence.  The accreditation program determines whether an OIG Investigations Unit has processes in place and whether those processes are consistently adhered to by all staff statewide.  As a result, minimum standards are established with the goal of enhancing the quality of investigations.  Accreditation is also a means in which to evaluate and improve the overall performance of the Investigations Unit.

Filing Complaints

In accordance with Florida Department of Children and Families Operating Procedure (CFOP) 180-4 (PDF) , employees are required to report certain violations to the OIG within two days of discovery. Complaints may also be made by providers, clients, or members of the public. Complaints and reports may be sent to the OIG by mail, email, or through a web complaint submission.

Inspector General Complaint Form , opens in a new window

Whistle-Blower

The Whistle-blower’s Act (Sections 112.3187–112.31895, Florida Statutes) protects state employees from retaliation by management for reporting wrongdoing. If a complaint meets the criteria defined in law, the identity of the person making the complaint is kept confidential and protected from disclosure. For additional information, review the Whistle-blower’s Hotline Brochure.

Inspector General Whistle-Blower Form , opens in a new window

Outreach

The Investigations Section provides Outreach Training to DCF and its providers to ensure that all employees are aware of the requirements to report certain violations to the OIG.  The Outreach Training also provides an overview of the investigative process and information on what may happen to an individual who is the subject of an OIG investigation. To request a training, please call (850) 488-1225.