Press Release  Audit Finds Areas for Improvement at Suffolk County Registry of Probate and Family Court

Boston — State Auditor Suzanne Bump today issued an audit that found some improvements needed at the Suffolk County Registry of Probate and Family Court (SCRPFC). This transition audit was requested by Register Felix Arroyo and commenced when his term began in January 2015. The audit covered the period July 1, 2013 through December 31, 2014.

“I hope that our review of Registry operations will help inform Register Arroyo and enhance the transition from the previous administration,” said Auditor Bump. “I look forward to working with his office to make government work better.”

“I would like to thank Auditor Bump for conducting this audit at my request so promptly and professionally, and for bringing the issues cited to my attention,” said Register Arroyo. “The Registry takes these issues seriously, and appreciates the opportunity to work with the Auditor to address them. A comprehensive review is underway, and Interim Policies and Procedures have been implemented. We will be in full compliance with all requirements established by statute, regulation, and administrative standards of the Trial Court.”

The audit found that the SCRPFC was not regularly reviewing trusts accounts which held funds for either a minor or an heir who cannot be located at the time of settlement. Without regular review, eligible funds might not be transferred to proper individuals or the Office of the State Treasurer as abandoned property after being held for three years. As of December 31, 2014, SCRPFC had 96 such accounts on hand valued at $1,451,596, and some of these accounts dated back to 1930.

Also, the audit found SCRPFC was not properly maintaining an adequate inventory of its fixed assets like furniture or computers, which puts these items at risk of loss, misuse or theft.

The Office of the State Auditor conducts performance audits of state government’s programs, departments, agencies, authorities, contracts, and vendors. With its reports, the OSA issues recommendations to improve accountability, efficiency, and transparency.

The audit of the Suffolk County Registry of Probate and Family Court is available here.

###