MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif -- The Headquarters Marine Corps Inspector General’s Office is committing to spread the word about regulations on fraud, waste and abuse.
According to the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Command Inspector General’s office, fraud is the intentional deception designed to unlawfully deprive the United States a benefit, privilege, allowance or consideration to which the individual is not entitled.
Such practices include, but are not limited to the offer, payment or acceptance of bribes, making false statements, submitting false claims, using false weights or measures, evading or corrupting officials, deceit either by suppressing the truth or misrepresenting material fact, adulterating materials, falsifying records or arranging for secret profits.
Fraud also includes conflict of interest cases, criminal irregularities and the unauthorized disclosure of official information relating to procurement and disposal matters.
One of the most common incidents is the misuse of government vehicles by both service members and base civilian employees, according to Edward Olivo, office manager, Command Inspector General’s Office.
Marine Corps Order P11240.106B states the use of GOV’s for personal use is prohibited and stipulates the use of government official vehicles.
Abuse of authority and position is a form of abuse, which is defined as an arbitrary or capricious exercise of power by a military member, federal official or employee that injures the rights of a subordinate. This is done by tyrannical, careless or capricious conduct, or continuous and severe abusive language.
Waste is defined as extravagant, careless or needless expenditure of government funds or the consumption of government property that results from deficient practices, systems, controls or decisions. It also includes improper practices not involving prosecutable fraud.
“Also, there have been a few complaints concerning civilian employees taking extended lunch breaks without taking leave. Anyone who takes a lunch break must make sure they are in compliance with MCO 12610.1G,” said Olivo.
Military members or civilian employees who are aware of any incidents of fraud, waste or abuse, should report the incidents to the Command Inspector General Office.
Olivo also said that you have the right to remain anonymous when reporting an incident. However, if you choose to do so, the Command Inspector General's Office will not be able to give further information concerning the status or outcome of the complaint. It may be more difficult to determine whether an investigation is warranted without additional information. As a result, absolute anonymity is not guaranteed.
“The importance of disseminating the fraud, waste or abuse issue is to make the public aware, the more you make people aware the more people will be on alert.” said Olivo. “Situational awareness is key.”
To report an incident, call (760)725-5144 or send an email to
commandinspectorgeneral@usmc.mil.