Crime Solicitors

Nottinghamshire County Council has revised its counter-fraud strategy, encouraging employees to be on the lookout for fraud.

The council says that staff vigilance over the last year has successfully blocked several attempts to defraud the council – including fake requests to amend the bank details of suppliers and attempts to set up bogus standing orders with the council’s bank.

In all cases, incidents involving suspected fraud have been referred to the police for further action.

In a recent survey carried out by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy (CIPFA), Nottinghamshire County Council reported a total of 15 cases of fraud in 2014-2015, with an estimated value of £103,000. This represented £1 for every £10,000 of taxpayers’ money spent.

The council says it continues to take “a positive stance against fraud” –
ensuring that staff, partners and the public understand the role they can play in helping prevent fraud against the council.

Chairman of the Audit Committee at Nottinghamshire County Council, Councillor Keith Walker, said:

“Although detected fraud levels remain low, we cannot become complacent –
and the council wants to continue to send out the message that all fraud is unacceptable.

“Adopting a strong, counter-fraud culture is a priority for the council as it looks to make the best use of limited funds.

“All councils are facing reduced budgets – and fraud adds to the financial pressures.

“Any money lost to fraud is money that cannot be spent on delivering essential services to the people of Nottinghamshire – so it’s in everyone’s best interests that the county council continues to take a zero-tolerance stance.”

Duncan Lewis Fraud Lawyers

Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving fraud – including at the start of a fraud investigation and before charges are brought.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and in most major cities – and a criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers can also attend interviews with HMRC, SFO, FCA, City of London Police and other prosecuting authorities, such as local authority fraud investigation teams.

For expert legal advice on all fraud charges, call Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers on 020 7923 4020.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Emergency Hotline on 020 7275 2036.