Abstract

This article introduces convenience theory as an explanation for executive misconduct and crime. Reports of investigations by fraud examiners often document convenience, and internal reports can contribute to convenience. Based on a case study, this article discusses the role of private investigations when there is suspicion of white-collar crime. In the case of executives at Lehman Brothers, the private internal investigation report provides evidence of all three dimensions in convenience theory: motive in the economical dimension, opportunity to commit and conceal misconduct, and willingness for deviant behavior. At the same time, the investigation report concludes that executives before the bankruptcy did nothing wrong, thereby supporting the convenience perspective for members of the elite.