Fraud & Ethics Hotline

The City of West Des Moines provides a confidential way for employees, vendors, and the public to report suspicious activity. We are committed to reviewing every report to prevent fraud, misconduct, and the misuse of City resources.

Why We Have This Hotline

Fraud and ethics violations can cause serious financial loss to the City. Research shows that most fraud is discovered through tips from people like you:

  • Tips Work: 43% of fraud schemes are caught because of tips; over half of those tips come from employees.
  • Early Detection: The average fraud case lasts 12 months before it is caught, costing about $12,500 every month it goes undetected.

You can read the 2024 Report to the Nations for more information on how fraud affects organizations.

What Should Be Reported?

You can use the hotline to anonymously report concerns such as:

  • Theft of city equipment, supplies, or money.
  • Reporting false hours worked or fake expense claims.
  • Taking inappropriate gifts from vendors.
  • Using city assets for a private business or personal gain.
  • Any other behavior that breaks city ethics rules.

How to Submit a Report

The hotline is confidential and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Who Can Use the Hotline?

This service is open to anyone connected to the City, including:

  • City employees and officials
  • Vendors and contractors
  • Board and Commission members
  • Residents and visitors