Investigation Section
Filing a Complaint with the Inspector General
For after hours and emergencies only,
call statewide dispatch at 1-800-459-6861
Overview
The Investigation Section of the Office of Inspector General is responsible for insuring that all complaints of a serious nature made against the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and its employees are thoroughly, completely and impartially investigated.
The Investigation Section conducts investigations in response to complaints or allegations from citizens and employees concerning wrongdoing involving any Department employee. These investigations are authorized in accordance with Section 570.092 and Section 20.055 (6), Florida Statutes, which in part states "... each inspector general shall initiate, conduct, supervise, and coordinate investigations designed to detect, deter, prevent, and eradicate fraud, waste, mismanagement, misconduct, and other abuses in state government." In addition to those areas specified, the Investigation Section is also responsible for the investigation of Sexual Harassment and Discrimination complaints.
As sworn law enforcement officers under Section 943.13, Florida Statutes, members of the Investigation Section conduct both criminal and administrative investigations.
Criminal investigations are based on violations of Florida Statutes. Administrative investigations include violations of DACS policies and DMS Conduct rules.
All investigations are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and policies, including the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights (Section 112.532, Florida Statutes) and the Firefighters Bill of Rights (Section 112.82, Florida Statutes).
The section is headquartered in Tallahassee with a second office in Tampa. The Investigation Section can be contacted at (850) 245-1360, by facsimile at (850) 245-1370, or by email at oig@freshfromflorida.com
The Investigation Section is staffed by Director Matt Sears, Captain Brian Balser, Lieutenant James Hayden and Administrative Assistant Lisa Zullo in Tallahassee and Captain Robyn Walk in Tampa.
