If you discover a criminal act while investigating a corporate policy abuse, it becomes a public-sector investigation and should be referred to law enforcement?

If you discover a criminal act while investigating a corporate policy abuse, it becomes a public-sector investigation and should be referred to law enforcement?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Cannot say

Answer: (A)

When you uncover a criminal act during an internal investigation, the matter shifts from policy review to law enforcement territory. Criminal offenses are handled by authorities empowered to investigate, arrest, and prosecute; internal teams don’t have the authority to pursue criminal charges or conduct formal criminal proceedings. Because evidence in criminal cases must be collected and preserved under proper legal procedures, you should promptly escalate the issue to law enforcement and coordinate with corporate counsel to report it. Preserve and document all evidence with a clear chain of custody, provide investigators with access to relevant materials, and follow legal and regulatory requirements for reporting. This approach protects the integrity of the investigation, helps ensure admissibility of evidence, and aligns with legal and regulatory expectations.

When you uncover a criminal act during an internal investigation, the matter shifts from policy review to law enforcement territory. Criminal offenses are handled by authorities empowered to investigate, arrest, and prosecute; internal teams don’t have the authority to pursue criminal charges or conduct formal criminal proceedings. Because evidence in criminal cases must be collected and preserved under proper legal procedures, you should promptly escalate the issue to law enforcement and coordinate with corporate counsel to report it. Preserve and document all evidence with a clear chain of custody, provide investigators with access to relevant materials, and follow legal and regulatory requirements for reporting. This approach protects the integrity of the investigation, helps ensure admissibility of evidence, and aligns with legal and regulatory expectations.