The Office of Inspection did not operate efficiently. Specifically, the office did not use its staff and resources efficiently to conduct cost effective inspections, internal reviews, and covert testing. The office employed personnel classified as “criminal investigators,” even though their primary duties may not have been criminal investigations as required by Federal law and regulations. These employees received premium pay and other costly benefits, although other employees were able to perform the same work at a lower cost. Additionally, the office did not properly plan its work and resource needs, track project costs, or measure performance effectively. Quality controls were not sufficient to ensure that inspections, internal reviews, and covert testing complied with accepted standards; staff members were properly trained; and work was adequately reviewed. Finally, the office could not always ensure other TSA components took action on its recommendations to improve TSA’s operations.

The division also investigates alleged criminal and administrative misconduct of TSA employees.