Retired Navy Captain Haas Gets 30 Months for Bribery in Global Scandal

U.S. Navy Captain (Retired) David Williams Haas was today sentenced to 30 months in federal prison by a judge in San Diego, California, after being caught accepting over $90,000 in bribes. The bribes, provided by foreign defense contractor Leonard Francis, included luxurious hotel stays, travel, and the use of prostitutes.

In addition to his prison sentence, Haas was ordered to pay a criminal fine of $30,000 and restitution totaling $90,968.82. ‘Public corruption erodes the very fabric of our democracy,’ said U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman. ‘Today’s sentencing signals that public institutions will be conducted in the light, without bias or favor.’

Haas is alleged to have used his influence within the Navy’s Seventh Fleet to steer ships to GDMA-controlled ports and otherwise advance the interests of Francis and GDMA in return for the bribes. He was accused of receiving lavish gifts including over $90,000 worth of meals, entertainment, hotel expenses, and the services of prostitutes.

“Mr. Haas’ sentencing brings accountability and closure to the willful illegal acts of a former U.S. Navy officer,” said Kelly P. Mayo, Director of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS). “This outcome demonstrates the steadfast commitment of DCIS and our law enforcement partners to expose corruption within the Department.”

NCIS Director Omar Lopez emphasized the betrayal of trust by Haas, stating, ‘Mr. Haas betrayed his oath to his country by soliciting, receiving, and accepting a stream of lavish gifts in return for doing and omitting to do acts in violation of his official Navy duties.’ The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher, Valerie Chu, Michelle Wasserman, and David Chu.

Defendant Summary:
Captain (Retired) David Williams Haas
Age 54
Kailua, Hawaii

Case Number: 18CR3656

Investigating Agencies included the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency.