NEW ORLEANS – In a brazen scheme, former United States Army reservist LEROY DANIELS, JR., 45, stole $11,693.87 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for military funeral honors ceremonies that never occurred.
On April 25, 2024, Daniels was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to 30 months of probation, 100 hours of community service, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Under the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act, Judge Brown also ordered Daniels to pay $11,693.87 in restitution to the United States Department of the Army.
According to court records, Daniels claimed reimbursement for military funeral honors ceremonies that never took place. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors (MFH) for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, stating, “The Army’s investigators did an outstanding job in uncovering this scheme and bringing justice to the victims.” Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit led the prosecution.
The scheme highlights the need for vigilance in government spending and the importance of accountability in the military. As one law enforcement official noted, “This case is a stark reminder that those who abuse their positions of trust will be held accountable.”
The punishment handed down to Daniels is a fraction of the pain and suffering his actions caused to the families he deceived. His crimes serve as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity and honesty in public service. Grimy Times will continue to report on this and other cases of public corruption and financial crimes.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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