Misquitta Sentenced for $1.3M Fraud Against Partners

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Neale J. Misquitta, 48, has been meted out a heavy sentence in federal court for his brazen $1.3 million fraud against his business partners. The defendant was sentenced to serve 71 months imprisonment and ordered to pay $1.3 million in restitution, along with a three-year supervised release.

The court heard that Misquitta executed a fraudulent scheme over nearly three years, from 2005 to 2008, by filing numerous expense reports and vouchers for personal expenses under the guise of business costs. The scam was primarily aimed at funding his own home construction in Upper St. Clair. One former partner reported losses exceeding $1,301,528 to Key Environmental, Inc., and Field and Technical Services, LLC.

Senior United States District Judge Alan N. Bloch imposed the sentence after a thorough examination of evidence that revealed Misquitta’s deceitful claims for items like decorative stone, bathroom fixtures, and even a $4,000 door for his wine cellar. The court found that an accounting firm confirmed the substantial losses.

Upon review, it was discovered that Misquitta had processed reimbursement claims with checks that were never cashed or negotiated. He also attempted to introduce a falsified document to imply approval of his fraudulent activities by his partners, which was swiftly dismissed as false by the court and jury.

The jury concluded that Misquitta intended to defraud his business partners, and the court echoed this sentiment in its ruling. Assistant United States Attorney James R. Wilson prosecuted the case for the government, while U.S. Attorney David J. Hickton commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their pivotal role in the investigation.

Misquitta’s conviction serves as a stern reminder of the consequences faced by those who betray the trust of business partners through financial chicanery.