Inquiry Into Allegations Concerning Matthew N. Novick, Former Inspector General, EPA

Gao ID: AFMD-83-49 March 4, 1983

GAO investigated allegations regarding the abuse of authority by a former inspector general of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically it was alleged that the former inspector general had not been working full days, directed his employees to conduct his personal business on Government time and ordered improper investigations and provided protective services in return for influencing EPA to hire a friend.

GAO could draw no conclusions about the inspector general's alleged work hour abuse because of incomplete evidence. However, GAO did find that: (1) the inspector general made several trips from his residence to the airport using a Government vehicle and driver apparently for official travel, although on at least one trip more economical transportation was available; (2) he was picked up at home and driven to work on one occasion, which is contrary to an appropriations act restriction; and (3) his former secretary spent 10.5 hours typing his personal papers on Government time. GAO found no evidence supporting the allegations that he ordered an investigation or provided protective services in return for influencing EPA to hire a friend. GAO did not assess whether the inspector general acted properly in ordering the investigation or services because this issue is part of an ongoing GAO evaluation of the inspector general's office.



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