When whistle-blowers come forth with damaging accusations, organizations often seek an external investigator who can provide an unbiased view of the situation. Whistle-blower allegations may be politically explosive and difficult to prove or disprove without a widespread inquiry into sensitive matters. If true, the allegations may trigger the need for institutional changes and reforms. Even if found to be false, they can unleash a public relations firestorm.

PII has assisted many organizations facing whistle-blower concerns. Experience has taught us that even if some whistle-blower allegations sound far-fetched, sometimes bordering on the outrageous, a closer look at the accusations is advisable. Whether the allegations turn out to be founded or unfounded, a report from an outside firm provides the organization with a paper-trail demonstrating that they took the charges seriously and initiated prompt action.

When the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) faced whistle-blower accusations about toxic school sites and other environmental problems, PII was asked to conduct a large-scale investigation of the District’s procedures and practices. During this assignment, PII focused on the controversial campus of Belmont Learning Complex to determine if LAUSD complied with laws related to school construction. Presenting its findings at executive sessions and public hearings, PII issued a report that was praised by Board of Education members, state legislators, the media and other stakeholders in the District. Eventually, PII’s recommendations became part of a District-wide plan to improve LAUSD’s performance in this area. Read more about it here