The investigative report details pertinent facts of a case and describes available evidence of all relevant aspects of any allegation against individuals, including aspects of an allegation not substantiated.

Investigative reports are given to officials and managers who have a need to know in order to properly determine whether disciplinary or other administrative action is warranted. If an administrative action is deemed appropriate, managers consult with the Office of Associate Managing Director – Human Resources Management and/or the Office of the General Counsel before initiating discipline. The appropriate agency official is expected to advise the OIG within 120 days of receiving the investigative report as to what disciplinary or other action has been proposed or taken in response to investigative report findings, or if no action is taken.

Cover Letter

The cover letter used with some investigative reports may contain information and guidance. When the IG observes that an issue identified in the transmitted report is a recurring or systematic problem, or one reported in other OIG products, the cover letter is used to identify the problem to managers in this broader context.

Investigative Document Distribution

OIG reports and documents are made available internally and publicly, subject to the restrictions imposed by the Privacy Act and the Freedom of Information Act.

The Freedom of Information Act generally provides individuals and entities with access to “agency records” except as specifically protected from disclosure under the exemptions or exclusions of that Act.

The Privacy Act generally prohibits the release of information pertaining to a particular individual without the consent of the individual.

Accordingly, the reports and documents generally are made available to FCC staff with a “need to know” for official purposes. With respect to requests from the general public, the reports and documents are made available upon request subject to any applicable privacy interests and conformance with the Freedom of Information Act.