United States Marshals Service's Use of Independent Contractors as Guards

Audit Report 05-24
May 2005
Office of the Inspector General

The USMS's response to the audit (Appendix VII) describes the actions taken or plans for implementing our recommendations. This appendix summarizes our response and the actions necessary to close the report. Recommendations: Resolved. In its response, the USMS stated that it plans to issue a memorandum to all offices concerning proper procurement procedures and other policies related to the use of independent contractors as guards. The USMS indicated that corrective actions required in recommendations 4 through 7 will be incorporated into its policy memorandum. In order to close this recommendation, please provide by June 30, 2005, copies of procedural guidance to the field and a list verifying compliance with the aforementioned policy memorandum. Include in the list the district, name and title of certifying official, and the date of certification. Resolved. In its response, the USMS stated that it will conduct a review of individual district guard usage in conjunction with its Fiscal Year 2007 budget request to determine the best alternative(s) for providing the necessary guard services. In order to close this recommendation, please provide the results of the review and implementation plans, pending approval of the FY 2007 budget request. In addition, during the exit conference the feasibility of expanding the scope of the USMS's CSO contracts was discussed. Please provide an update on your negotiations with the Administrative Office of the United States Courts regarding this matter. Resolved. In its response, the USMS stated that it will conduct a review of its policies on the use of independent contractors as guards, with regard to revising the fitness-for-duty requirements. In order to close this recommendation, please provide the OIG with the results of the review and documentation showing that revised fitness standards have been implemented. Resolved. See actions required for recommendation 1. Resolved. See actions required for recommendation 1. In addition, please provide a copy of the form developed to document evaluations. Resolved. See actions required for recommendation 1. In addition, please provide the OIG with the description of the system developed for tracking independent contractor training by June 30, 2005, and the timeframe for implementation. Resolved. See actions required in recommendation 1.