(956) 983-6620
For the past 50 years, we at the Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) know you have come to rely on us to deliver an outstanding customer experience. That is why we listen when there is a concern about suspected fraud, waste and abuse of BPUB resources.
What Constitutes Fraud, Waste, and Abuse?
Fraud
Fraud is defined as any dishonest act, omission or intentional wrongful course of action designed to deceive others, resulting in a loss and/or the perpetrator achieving a gain. The key elements of fraud include intent, reliance on misrepresentation of the truth and something of value was obtained as a result.
Examples of fraud include but are not limited to:
- Improper use or spending of BPUB funds or PCards
- Tampering with government records
- Theft or misappropriation of BPUB resources
- Falsification of official documents or reports (timesheets, leave reports, travel vouchers, etc.)
- Personal use of BPUB-owned vehicles, equipment or supplies
Waste
Waste is defined as the intentional or unintentional, thoughtless or careless expenditure, consumption, mismanagement, use, or squandering of BPUB resources. Waste also includes incurring unnecessary costs because of inefficient or ineffective practices, systems, or controls.
Examples of waste include but are not limited to:
- Unnecessary spending of BPUB funds to purchase supplies or equipment.
Abuse
Abuse of BPUB property includes intentional destruction, diversion, manipulation, misapplication, maltreatment, or misuse of BPUB resources. Extravagant or excessive use as to abuse one's position or authority can also be abuse. Abuse can occur in financial or non-financial settings.
Examples of abuse include but are not limited to:
- Corruption or official misconduct, including misuse of BPUB information, conflicts of interest, or offering or accepting bribes
- Conducting personal business on BPUB time
- Obstructing, retaliating against, or tampering with anyone reporting suspected abuse of BPUB resources.
Take Action!
Together, we can protect our community assets by reporting suspected fraud, waste or abuse of BPUB resources. Click here to make an anonymous report. You can also call in your concern to (956) 983-6620. All calls remain confidential. Be as detailed as possible in order for BPUB to conduct its investigation.
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