Embezzlement at the Grandview Community Recreation Association

This case is based on actual fraud at a not-for-profit organization. In this case, students assume the role of a volunteer forensic investigator who assists the local police department to investigate the possible embezzlement case for a recreation association. Students learn about the activities and the people who are involved with the association. Through the examination of various documents, they identify any discrepancies between the association's accounting records and bank statements. Students apply the fraud triangle to gain a perspective on the possible motivation, opportunity, and rationalization of the likely perpetrator. Students become familiar with the concept of embezzlement and larceny, and recommend fraud prevention practices for the association. After completing this case, students are more aware of why and how small not-for-profit organizations are more susceptible to fraud than are other organizations. This case is appropriate for use in a forensic accounting course or an advanced auditing course.