On some of the pumps I used, there was a sticker from some weights and measures department certifying that the pump had been checked.  I wonder how rigorous this inspection really is?  On any given day a tenth of a gallon is not that big a deal. Over a year or a lifetime, this can really add up.

Unlike sports stars who claim that they are not role models, they are just gifted athletes that kids admire; politicians and elected officials are in a completely different situation.  Elected officials seek the spotlight of elected office.  Along with the perks comes the greater scrutiny and diminished private life.  Its the deal!

Since elected officials are role models as public figures, it is even more important they are treated in accordance with our laws.  After all, everyone is watching!

A couple of interesting things here:

1.  He is accused, not convicted.  Maybe somebody else did it, or the money will be found somewhere.  (Unlikely, but you never know)

2.  Understand people, not internal controls, steal.

3.  $1.3 million over 7 years averages approximately $186,000 per year.

4.  You do not know what you are missing until you look for it!

I bet that this was a control failure.  There were either no controls, or nobody bothered to check to see if they were being used.  What is really sad is that this took 7 years to come to light. 

Any comments?

How many times have you heard the phrase “its not material” or “that’s below the threshold”?  Well, thieves know this as well.  The story below is but the most recent example I have found of stealing a little from many.Click here:

Use the tools and contacts at your disposal to ensure those you transact with, vote for, and employ are trustworthy.  Character does matter.

The same is true for internal controls.  The majority of problems result because the controls are not used or are circumvented.  Are your controls used?  If not, why not?  Onerous, complicated and unused controls are equivalent to no controls.  Spend some time and money making your controls both usable and effective, then continually monitor their use.  This will save you money in the long run.

As a business issue, I see the mobile device debate differently.  These devices are expensive to purchase and operate.  Every month, companies pay the cellular companies significant sums so their employees can have round the clock access to e-mail.  Is this really that necessary?  How many e-mails do you receive that are not business related… jokes, cartoons, etc.?

Now think in terms of electronic discovery for an internal investigation  or a law suit.  At this very instant, there are rooms full of lawyers working on behalf of their clients sorting through terabytes of electronic trash charging hundreds of dollars per hour.  Fewer company sponsored mobile devices, less electronic trash.  Less electronic trash, lower monthly cell charges and lower investigation and litigation related expenses.  Seems pretty simple doesn’t it?

http://www.wimp.com/copymachines/

http://www.alternet.org/economy/146674/10_ways_the_american_economy_is_built_on_fraud?page=1