Investigative Reports

The Federal Election Commission (FEC) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) initiated an investigation into a complaint that alleged improprieties concerning a recent hiring action for a vacant position within the Office of General Counsel (OGC).

An Amtrak Electrician based in Groton, Connecticut, violated company policy by misusing his company-owned vehicle by regularly traveling to and stopping atlocations not associated with his work duties during his shifts, including making multiple visits to his residence throughout July 2022. In addition, we determined that the employee violated company policies by attempting to cover the lens of the interior Lytx camera in his vehicle and for not being honest or forthcoming with our agents during his interview. The employee was terminated after his disciplinary hearing on December 13, 2022.

A former Amtrak conductor based in New York City violated company policies when he failed to report his conviction for Medicaid fraud, which occurred on April 30, 2015, in the Circuit Court for Montgomery County, Maryland. We found that the company’s Human Resources department had no record of his arrest or conviction. We interviewed the conductor, who admitted that he had been convicted of a felony, paid restitution, and regularly reported to a probation officer while working for the company. The conductor resigned on November 30, 2022, and is not eligible for rehire.

VA OIG attorney-advisors conducted two related internal investigations following allegations that a then special agent in charge in the Office of Investigations engaged in inappropriate conduct or sexual harassment that his superiors ignored and that contributed to a hostile work environment. OIG disciplinary officials determined the special agent in charge engaged in “conduct unbecoming” and should be removed from federal service. The special agent in charge retired during the 30-day advance notice period that is required before completing a removal action. The evidence did not support a charge of sexual harassment, failure to act by senior leaders, or a hostile work environment. To enhance future reporting and a safe workplace, the OIG implemented and updated directives on romantic relationships involving coworkers and sexual misconduct in addition to other responsive actions.The OIG publishes summaries of internal investigations of alleged senior personnel misconduct to promote transparency and accountability. Summary information released is consistent with applicable privacy laws and regulations.

PDC Energy, Inc., drilled and then operated a well in Colorado that removed Federal minerals without first obtaining a Federal lease or drilling permit.