Drinking up the profits: A forensic accounting case

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2012

Subject Area

ARRAY(0x5649f1580010)

Abstract

CASE DESCRIPTION: This case introduces students to several forensic and cost accounting techniques. Students will read along as Dr. Scott Graham performs a forensic investigation at Sullivan's Bar. Students will be exposed to determining expected sales based on inventory usage, invigilation, observation, and other general accounting techniques. The case is targeted for students in an undergraduate forensic accounting class or cost accounting class. The case may be used as an in class discussion mechanism or assigned as a take home project. The case can be discussed fully within a one hour class if students have pre-prepared for the case. Students should expect to spend about 3-6 hours of preparation time outside of class. Case Synopsis: This case is based on happenings at Sullivan's Bar, a drinking establishment owned by Frank Sullivan. Over the past few years Frank has noticed a decline in profits from Sullivan's Operations, even though there seems to be more customers in the bar. Frank asks one of his regulars at the bar, Dr. Scott Graham for help. Dr. Graham is an accounting professor at the local university and teaches accounting information systems. Dr. Graham challenges a few of his graduate students to help determine what could be causing the decline in bar revenues. The case features Dr. Graham and his students as they explore operations at Sullivan's Bar. To determine where the lost profits may be hiding, Dr. Graham and his students examine the financial records, document operations, brainstorm on ideas, and do an onsite investigation and invigilation at the bar.

Publication Title

Journal of the International Academy for Case Studies

Volume

18

Issue

8

First Page

117

Last Page

126

ISSN

10784950

E-ISSN

15325822

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