Section 3430.70  Initiating an Investigation

a)         Investigations may be based on complaints from any source, including anonymous sources, and may be self-initiated, without a complaint [605 ILCS 10/8.5(d)]. 

1)         The OIG shall receive and investigate complaints or information from an employee of the Authority concerning the possible existence of an activity constituting a violation of law, rules or regulations, mismanagement, abuse of authority, or substantial and specific danger to the public health and safety [605 ILCS 10/8.5(f)(9)].

2)         The OIG also investigates allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement, misconduct, nonfeasance, misfeasance, or malfeasance [605 ILCS 10/8(e)(1)].

3)         The OIG shall review hiring and employment files of the Authority to ensure compliance with Rutan v. Republican Party of Illinois, 497 U.S. 62 (1990), and with all applicable employment laws [605 ILCS 10/8.5(f)(7)].

b)         Within 30 business days after the receipt of the complaint, allegation, or information, the OIG shall conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if it suggests possible misconduct or violation of any rule, regulation, policy or law. 

c)         The minimum requirements for initiating an investigation include, but are not limited to, the following:

1)         Jurisdiction.

2)         Statute of limitations.

3)         Whether the allegations can be independently verified through investigation.

d)         After conducting the preliminary investigation and considering the minimum requirements for initiating an investigation and any other relevant information, the Inspector General shall determine whether the OIG shall: 

1)         Not conduct an investigation.

2)         Open an investigation.

3)         Refer the complaint, allegation or information to the appropriate agency, individual or entity.

4)         Consolidate the matter with a pending investigation of a similar nature.

5)         Suspend opening an investigation pending an external investigation or legal proceeding by law enforcement, prosecutorial entity, or other governmental entity.