he purpose of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) is to prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement and to promote economy, effectiveness, and efficiency in government. The OIG is an independent entity within the Peace Corps. The Inspector General (IG) reports directly to the Peace Corps Director. In addition, the IG reports to Congress semiannually with data on OIG activities.   The Peace Corps Inspector General is Charles D. Smith. The Peace Corps Deputy Inspector General is Allan Gall.   The OIG is authorized by law to review all programs and operations of the Peace Corps. The OIG professional staff has a range of skills:   Auditors Auditors review functional activities of the Peace Corps, such as contract compliance and financial and program operations, to ensure accountability and to recommend improved levels of economy and efficiency. Evaluators Evaluators analyze the management and program operations of the Peace Corps at both overseas posts and domestic offices. They identify best practices and recommend program improvements and means to comply with Peace Corps policies. Investigators Investigators respond to allegations of criminal or administrative wrongdoing by Peace Corps personnel, including experts and consultants, and by those who do business with the Peace Corps, including contractors. OIG staff In their on-site visits, OIG staff encourage post self-evaluations, identify problem areas, and recommend corrective actions. They conduct inspections focused on administrative compliance with rules and regulations. In addition, they review the safety and security of Volunteers and staff. More broadly, OIG staff identify common problems and trends from post to post and offer guidance for quality improvements agency-wide.   The OIG serves as the law enforcement arm of the Peace Corps and works closely with the Department of State, the Department of Justice, and other Federal agencies.   The following are examples of offenses listed in the Peace Corps Manual that should be reported to the OIG when they involve Peace Corps staff, Volunteers, Trainees, contractors, experts, or consultants; or when they involve funds, including Peace Corps' appropriations, host country contributions, or any other agency funding sources:   Theft or embezzlement Fraud Unexplained deficiencies in Federal funds Misuse or mismanagement of Federal funds Illegal mutilation or destruction of a public record False statements, involving Federal funds, accounts, or documents Illegal drug use Selling or importing/exporting narcotics, controlled drugs, or contraband Arson or vandalism Bribery, attempted bribery, or unlawful gratuities involving a government official Conflict of interest and other ethics violations Misuse of government vehicles, property, or transportation requests Significant violations of Peace Corps regulations Sexual harassment/abuse by a co-worker or supervisor Violent crimes, including sexual assault and rape Kidnapping Disappearance Death (by any means - including suicide) Acts of terrorism and actions endangering the public health and safety   Persons concerned about possible wrongdoing can contact the OIG in person, in writing, by e-mail, or by telephoning the OIG Hotline (see information above right). The OIG accepts anonymous complaints, but investigations are generally more effective if the complainant is available to provide information and documents upon request. The identity of an informant will be protected to the extent possible. Informants are protected from reprisal under the IG Act, as well as other statutes, and should notify the OIG of any real or perceived retaliation.     Help promote the integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Peace Corps. Anyone knowing of wasteful practices, abuse, mismanagement, fraud, or unlawful activity involving Peace Corps programs or personnel should call or write the Office of Inspector General.     Peace Corps Office of Inspector General P.O. Box 57129 Washington, DC 20037-7129     202-692-2915 800-233-5874     202-692-2901     oig@peacecorps.gov   Read our privacy and freedom of information policies.