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Eight Dirty Cops and Civilians Sentenced for Stealing Military Gear
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – In a brazen case of corruption, eight individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for conspiring to steal millions of dollars in military property from the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD). The defendants, including several police officers, were found guilty of stealing equipment designed to provide operators with nighttime engagement capabilities and improved target acquisition.
The stolen items included military gear worth millions, which was sold to the owner of a military surplus store. The conspirators split the profits from the sale of the stolen property. The defendants, who worked at the ANAD, were able to steal the equipment due to their positions of trust.
The following individuals were sentenced to federal prison in connection with their participation in the conspiracy:
Steve Bonner, 63, of Goodwater, a middleman, was found guilty of conspiracy to steal United States property following a four-day trial. The court sentenced him to 30 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $1,873,200 to the United States Department of Defense.
Jerry Baker, 63, of Hokes Bluff, a Captain with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 25 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $3,750,000 to the United States Department of Defense.
Kelvin Battle, 54, of Anniston, a Sergeant with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 21 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $2,414,582 to the United States Department of Defense.
Eric Matraia, 54, of Munford, a guard with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 16 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $3,000,000 to the United States Department of Defense.
Shane Farthing, 42, of Gadsden, a guard with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 15 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $707,000 to the United States Department of Defense.
Christopher Price, 55, of Childersburg, the owner of a military surplus store in Sylacauga, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 14 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $3,940,940 to the United States Department of Defense.
James Kenneth Scott, 73, of Sylacauga, a middleman, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 12 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $3,500,000 to the United States Department of Defense.
Scott Bunch, 54, of Alexandria, a Defense Logistics Agency supervisor, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal United States property. The court sentenced him to 12 months in prison and ordered him to pay restitution of $3,750,000 to the United States Department of Defense.
U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona praised the dedication of law enforcement partners and prosecutors in bringing the defendants to justice. “These sentences send a clear message that such criminal conduct will not be tolerated,” said Escalona.
The case is a stark reminder of the corruption that can occur in positions of trust and the importance of holding those accountable for their actions. The defendants will now face the consequences of their crimes, and the public can rest assured that justice has been served.
As the Grimy Times continues to investigate this case, we will provide updates on any new developments. In the meantime, the people of Alabama can take comfort in knowing that those who betray the public trust will be held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: Alabama
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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