Semiannual Report

This semiannual report describes accomplishments of our office for the six-month period ending September 30, 1997. During this reporting period, we completed 30 audits which identified $552,000 in questioned costs and more than $10.5 million in funds that could be used more effectively. Our auditors emphasized contract issues while also examining topics as diverse as TVA's efforts at eliminating potentially hazardous chemicals from electrical equipment and TVA's protection of sensitive information contained in its Integrated Business System. We also conducted 24 special projects, typically at the request of management, which identified or realized cost savings totaling about $5.7 million. Our investigations group completed 77 investigations, substantiating allegations in almost 25 percent of the cases we investigated. During this reporting period, our investigations resulted in $480,951 in potential or actual recoveries, 7 indictments, and 3 convictions. Further, as a result of our investigations of alleged misconduct, 3 TVA employees resigned and administrative action was taken against 11 others. This, our eleventh year of service to TVA. has been marked by our continuing efforts to find ways TVA can save and spend money more wisely and to identify fraud and abuse affecting the agency. With sadness, we mourn the passing of Fred P. Vichich, an OIG charter member who joined the OIG as a special agent after serving in that capacity with the FBI for 12 years. Fred, who was responsible for many of the OIG's successes prior to his recent retirement, was eulogized as dedicated to his family, work, and friends. We will remember Fred as we persevere in supporting TVA's goals and maintain our dedication to hard work, integrity, and getting results. Sincerely, George T. Prosser