MISSOULA — In a stunning turn of events, Adrian Anthony Aragon, 53, of Butte, has been sentenced to two years and seven months in prison for his brazen act of forgery. The former Bureau of Land Management (BLM) employee pleaded guilty in February to theft of government money and aggravated identity theft.
Aragon’s scheme came to light when he admitted to using a co-worker’s signature on stolen BLM checks, leading to over $10,000 in losses. He used the illicit funds for personal expenses, including cash withdrawals, bills, dining out, and online shopping. The court’s order of $8,600 restitution leaves no doubt about the severity of his actions.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided over the sentencing, which followed Aragon’s plea in February. The case has sent shockwaves through the BLM community and beyond, highlighting the potential risks associated with handling sensitive government funds.
According to court documents, Aragon’s employment at the BLM came to an end in 2019 after authorities discovered he had been using his employee travel card for personal expenses. Despite being released from custody and placed on federal supervised release, Aragon continued his criminal activities by forging checks in the name of a former co-worker.
U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich’s Office prosecuted the case, while the Department of Interior Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation that led to Aragon’s downfall. The sentence handed down today serves as a stark reminder of the consequences for those who tamper with government funds and trust.
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Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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