Shropshire Star

‘Internal fraud’ case investigated at Telford & Wrekin Council

Police have been called to investigate an “internal fraud” case at Telford & Wrekin Council.

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An auditor’s report has revealed that, some time since April 2018, an employee has been accused of defrauding the authority.

A council spokesperson confirmed the investigation was ongoing but declined to comment further.

The same document reveals that the council is investigating numerous cases of members of the public trying to swindle money from it.

Prepared by external auditors Grant Thornton and due to go before the borough’s audit committee next week, part of the report takes the form of a question-and-answer with the council.

They ask: “Are you aware of any instances of actual, suspected or alleged fraud either within the council as a whole or within specific departments since April 1, 2018?”

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The reply reads: “In terms of internal fraud against the council, one matter has been under investigation and has been passed over to the police since April 2018.

“External to the council, there have been a number of allegations received regarding fraud by members of the public. These are largely related to revenues matters. These matters are investigated by the investigation team.”

West Mercia Police have been approached for comment.

The report was prepared by accountancy and consultancy network Grant Thornton UK LLP.

Explaining the purpose of the report, the authors write: “This report includes a series of questions on each of these areas and the response we have received from the council’s management.

“The audit committee should consider whether these responses are consistent with its understanding and whether there are any further comments it wishes to make.”

Telford & Wrekin Council’s seven-member audit committee will discuss the report when it meets on Tuesday, January 29.

By Alex Moore, Local Democracy Reporter