CSI: Forensic Accounting
Investigators audit an accounting firm; Dakota is faced with another ethical dilemma.With the proliferation of CSI, I think it’s time a CSI moves into the exciting world of forensic accounting.
Imagine the audits and paper trails brought to life with thrilling computer graphics. Forensic accounting is one of the fastest growing areas of accountancy. Everyone knows how dynamic, exciting and crazy accountants can get1. Take this actual description of what can happen in the day of a real-life forensic accountant:
For example, say we suspect someone of under-reporting income in a small business, such as a pizza parlor. You look at things such as how many boxes were delivered to the pizza parlor in a month, or how much ice, and measure that against reported sales.
Gripping. Criminal fraud. Civil litigation. Forensic accounting has it all. Plots taken right from the headlines, like Enron or Martha Stewart’s ink expert. The possibilities on this one really are as endless as a thermal calculator paper roll. Visualize a scene zooming in on that.
1Not trying to make fun of accountants without which our society would collapse into anarchy. They have very important jobs. I love my accountant.