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Defendant Admits to Theft of Over $2 Million in Government Property
Raleigh, N.C. – A Ft. Bragg officer has pleaded guilty to theft and money laundering after selling over $2 million in government property, including military scopes, weapons parts, tools, welding equipment, night vision goggles, and ATVs.
Chief Warrant Officer Three (CW3) Christopher Hammond, 38, pleaded guilty to theft/possession of government property and money laundering last week. His wife, Major Heather Hammond, 34, was convicted by a federal jury for spending money laundering proceeds and aiding and abetting.
According to court documents, CW3 Hammond used his position to requisition government property intended for his unit at Ft. Bragg. The property was never logged into inventory at the base but was instead sold by Hammond to various individuals. In a two-year period, CW3 Hammond received at least $1.8 million in wire transfers related to the sales, which he deposited into bank accounts controlled by him and his wife.
Major Hammond knowingly allowed use of her bank accounts, even suggesting the use of her accounts so the money would not go into Chief Hammond’s bank account. The fraud was uncovered when a supplier noticed that items procured under a government contract were being sent in for warranty repairs by a private individual.
CW3 Hammond faces up to 30 years in prison, plus fines and restitution, and Major Hammond faces up to ten years in prison plus fines, when they are sentenced later this year.
U.S. Attorney Michael Easley stated, “We are putting a stop to corruption at Ft. Bragg and those who use their official positions to line their own pockets. Mr. Hammond abused his position with the Army to steal and sell government property. He stole military scopes, weapons parts, tools, welding equipment, night vision goggles and ATVs.”
This case was investigated by Defense Criminal Investigative Services (DCIS), Department of Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Barbara Kocher and Logan Liles are prosecuting the case.
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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