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Procurement fraud is extremely widespread at both the state and federal government levels. This type of fraud can cheat the government, and therefore taxpayers, out of millions. If you have knowledge of procurement fraud being committed, don't hesitate to contact an experienced whistleblower attorney. You may be entitled to 15 to 30% of any damages under the False Claims Act.
James Shoemaker has years of experience taking on qui tam whistleblower cases at Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein. He has the resources necessary to help you expose fraud and receive due compensation. Contact him at 757.223.4560 for a free and confidential consultation. He provides services to clients in Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, Washington, D.C., and throughout the United States.
What Is Procurement Fraud?
Procurement fraud occurs when the government is defrauded during the process of procuring goods or services in any industry. Since the government uses private contractors for everything from weapons procurement to roadwork to technology services, there are ample opportunities for corrupt individuals to commit fraud.
Types of procurement fraud can include:
- Bid rigging:Â This is one of the most common types of procurement fraud, and happens when independent contractors secretly agree upon a bid, so that competition is just for show. This type of fraud, also known as bid collusion, drives up prices in the affected industry.
- Bribes and kickbacks:Â Bribes and kickbacks can take monetary form, but also occur often in the guise of high-priced "gifts" such as luxury travel packages or entertainment.
- Overcharging for goods or services:Â This can happen in multiple ways, including raising the price only after a bid has been won through inflated change orders, billing multiple times for a single expense, or submitting false or inflated invoices.
- Supplying inferior products or services:Â If a contractor deliberately or knowingly provides services or goods that are not up to the standards outlined in the contract, they may be considered guilty of fraud.
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Procurement Fraud and the False Claims Act
Individuals might be hesitant to come forward with knowledge of procurement fraud for fear of repercussions from their workplace. However, under the False Claims Act, whistleblowers are protected against being targeted by their employers.
In addition, coming forward to blow the whistle on fraud as a qui tam relator has a financial incentive. Whistleblowers may receive anywhere from 15 to 30% of recovered damages, which can often end up being in the millions. Procurement fraud is often practiced on a large scale, and damages can be quite extensive.
What Should You Do If You Suspect Procurement Fraud?
If you are aware of any type of procurement fraud occurring against the government, you should immediately consult with an experienced whistleblower attorney. An attorney like Mr. Shoemaker knows the law inside and out, and can help determine if you have a case and navigate you through the complexities of bringing a qui tam suit against your employer.
To schedule your completely confidential consultation, call procurement fraud attorney James Shoemaker at 757.223.4560 today. He is part of the law firm Patten, Wornom, Hatten & Diamonstein, and as such has extensive resources at his disposal. He is located in Virginia, and serves clients in Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, Washington, D.C., and throughout the United States.