Holliston Helping Hands

This case focuses on fraud investigation in a not‐for‐profit organization, along with an examination of governance and management control practices. The student assumes the role of an accountant investigating a possible fraud. The student is first presented with sample invoices paid by the organization that are fraught with irregularities and red flags of potential fraud. Drawing on the student's knowledge of control systems and corporate governance, the student's task is to identify suspicions of possible fraudulent transactions, identify key suspects, and develop an investigative plan. The class can also discuss recommendations to improve governance and control mechanisms to avoid future occurrences of fraud. The case is presented in three parts, and closely parallels a fraud investigation as additional information is revealed in each successive part of the case. This is much like peeling the layers of an onion which is a common way to describe the evolution of a fraud investigation. This case is based on a real fraud investigation conducted by one of the authors who was engaged by the province's Ministry of Health. Students who express disbelief about issues portrayed in the case can be reassured that these faithfully represent actual events.