About

History

The three principals of DFI share a common background and common values. All three started their law-enforcement careers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and subsequently transferred to U.S. Agency for International Development Office of Inspector General (USAID/OIG). Having experienced firsthand the heartbreak and misery caused by fraud and corruption regarding international development projects, they developed an empathy for the victims. Scott, Ken and Mike decided to launch DFI to level the playing field and assist those people least able to help themselves.

Why DFI?

If not handled quickly and efficiently, allegations of fraud can escalate well beyond the initial facts. Allegations of wrongdoing, whether true or not, can damage the reputation of any development organization, regardless of size, standing or quality. This can have an immediate, and possibly irreversible, effect on funding and the ability of the organization to carry out its core work and functions.

QUALITY

DFI prides itself on its professionalism, competence, cost-effectiveness and results. Our goal is to respond quickly, conduct a thorough and efficient investigation or risk assessment and produce a final report in a timely manner. Although only one or two investigators will typically be assigned to the field, they will not work in a vacuum. The field investigator(s) will maintain contact with DFI headquarters personnel to draw on their extensive experience to augment the investigation. Deploying all of DFI’s expertise on each investigation ensures the client receives the best possible product. To further ensure a high-quality work product, all final reports are reviewed by at least two levels of DFI management.

INDEPENDENCE

Reviews conducted by an organization’s own employees can be effective in certain circumstances. However, serious allegations of fraud should be conducted by independent investigators who are not intimidated or affected by internal politics. DFI objectively collects information and follows all logical leads to wherever the facts may lead. Reports will lay out the facts in a clear, concise and easily understood format.

CULTURAL AWARENESS

Conducting sensitive complex investigations in a developing country is a skill that cannot be taught – it can only be learned through experience. Having worked in over 80 countries, the principals, consultants and high-level accounting experts of DFI are uniquely qualified to handle difficult investigative and accounting development issues almost anywhere in the developing world.

CONFIDENTIALITY

DFI will not release sensitive or proprietary client information or investigative information unless subpoenaed by a U.S. court of law.