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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

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Investigations

On this Page:

Office of Investigations

Director: Thomas Ashley
Deputy Director: Jerry Prichard

The Office of Investigations (OI) conducts investigations of licensees, applicants, their contractors or vendors, including the investigation of all allegations of wrongdoing by other than NRC employees and contractors; ensures that the Commission and NRC offices are aware of matters under investigation as they affect the public health and safety, and common defense and security; maintains current awareness of inquiries and inspections by other NRC offices to identify the need for formal investigations; makes appropriate referrals to the Department of Justice maintains liaison with other agencies and organizations to ensure the timely exchange of information of mutual interest; and issues subpoenas where necessary or appropriate for the conduct of investigations.

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Authority and Jurisdiction

The OI investigative authority is derived from Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 1, Section 1.36 (1998); Section 161(c) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2201 (c)); and Section 206 of the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5846). The OI investigative jurisdiction includes the investigation of alleged wrongdoing by licensees, certificate holders, permittees, or applicants, by contractors, subcontractors, and vendors of such entities, and/or by management, supervisory, and other employed personnel of such entities who may have committed violations of the Atomic Energy Act, the Energy Reorganization Act, and rules, orders, and license conditions issued by the Commission.

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Field Offices

Plans and conducts investigations to include the issuance of subpoenas where necessary. Provides investigative support to the regional inspection staff. Presents the results of investigations to NRC management and makes referrals as appropriate to the Department of Justice. Maintains liaison with NRC officials, licensees, and other agencies as needed.

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Page Last Reviewed/Updated Monday, March 03, 2025