Investigation of Possible Ethics Violations by BIA Employees

OIG investigated allegations that two married Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Office of Trust Services employees solicited positions with a tribe while simultaneously assisting the tribe in obtaining Federal funds for its forestry program. 

 

We found that the couple participated in the distribution of $200,000 to the tribe while the husband sought the position of tribal forest manager and the wife considered an offer for a BIA superintendent positon at the tribe. We found that the actions of the husband, who attempted to conceal his assistance to the tribe while his wife considered the position, violated Federal employment regulations. We also found that the couple’s actions while the husband was seeking employment with the tribe created the appearance of a conflict of interest. Neither the husband nor wife ultimately took positions with the tribe.

 

This is a summary of an investigative report that we issued to BIA for action.