Characteristics of these cases that were examined included sources of case predication, the nature of offenses investigated, generic identification of the subjects under investigation, case administrative requirements, investigative methods, and outcomes. Overall, the most frequent source of cases was referral from management of the Inspector General's own agency; audit referral was the most common source of procurement cases. Federal contractors or subcontractors were the most frequent subjects of investigation. Of cases, 60 percent were staffed by only 1 investigator, and 84 percent of cases took less than 300 staff days to investigate. Interviews were the most commonly used investigative technique and also were considered the most important to the case. Techniques such as search warrants, undercover operations, and consensual monitoring, while infrequently used, often were critical to the case. Of cases, 73 percent resulted in criminal conviction, and $99.2 million were recovered in criminal, civil, and administrative actions. Cases involving contract activities produced half of the monetary recoveries. 5 figures and 26 tables. (Author abstract modified)