ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. – Everyday is a busy one for Aberdeen Proving Ground Federal Credit Union Security and Fraud Investigation Officer Dean L. Jager. "And I am enjoying every minute of it," said Jager. "I spent 11 years as a police officer investigating white collar crime and over the years I handled a few cases with the APGFCU internal auditor. Then by coincidence this position opened up and here I am." With a definition of fraud as "the general term for anyone who commits a crime against the credit union" Jager responsibilities include security activities such as investigating any internal and external fraud, documentation, training and remaining current in knowledge in all aspects of local, state and federal criminal laws that may effect the credit union. According to Jager, in addition to getting his credit union bearings, the initial challenge was changing the in-house structure that in past would handle fraud to funnel the cases to his office for formal investigation. "We've been successful educating employees on identifying fraud, and knowing what should be forwarded to me," said Jager. "In fact, my policy for every department is that if in doubt or if you have any questions then just call me." Jager helps with a wide range of issues and a typical day can find him anywhere from working with the training department developing programs to strengthen employee awareness to reviewing security functions for new branch facilities. Jager even dedicates his personal time educating community groups such as the AARP or Rotary Club on ways to minimize their risks. "It really enhances member relations," said Jager. "People feel better when they know there is someone dedicated to destroying crime. Since Enron, there is a new push for internal investigators and I think more credit unions will start to make that investment." According to Jager, credit unions should determine the goal whether it is corporate security overall or for a specific area. From there it is a matter of creating a job description to meet that standard to the fullest and looking for someone with an investigative background in white collar crime. "Right now I have five cases pending and I am a liaison with local law enforcement agencies," said Jager. "It is unrealistic to expect authorities to be able to conduct an investigation in a timely manner while learning the ins and outs of the financial system. I work up the entire case so there is little for the local authorities to do and once my casefile is handed over the charging process and prosecution are expedited." [email protected]