ABSTRACT
Investigations can be contentious and controversial, and – of necessity – are sometimes conducted in uncharted aspects of the law. Each case is different, suspects and witnesses react inconsistently, and there is the ever-present danger that one mistake will jeopardize everything and cause adverse publicity and long-lasting problems. There are three vital components of most successful investigations: effective, independent management control, based on clear objectives and policies, skilled resources and effective processes that result in the First Step being devastating for the crooks. The critical factors of control are adequate professional resources and defined, planned processes, based on an evolving fraud theory and investigations plan. Monitoring should start at the earliest possible point in an investigation, and always before the First Step. It may continue throughout the investigation, but should cease as soon as possible. Investigators, posing as head-hunters, approached the senior vice-president of the competitor to discuss an imaginary new job for which he might be a candidate.
