The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about alleged criminal actions by Council officers. The main issues raised in the complaint are best dealt with by the police.
The complaint
The complainant, who I refer to here are Mr B, has complained about fraud and corruption within the Council.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We provide a free service but must use public money carefully. We may decide not to start an investigation if, for example, we believe there is another body better placed to consider the complaint. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended) Where we have decided not to investigate the substantive issue, it is not a good use of public money to investigate other peripheral actions by a council.
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by Mr B. I also considered our Assessment Code.
Final decision
We will not investigate Mr B’s complaint which is mainly an allegation of criminal activity. It is the role of the police to deal with such allegations.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman