GREAT FALLS – John Edmonston, 54, of Great Falls, was sentenced yesterday for his role in a scheme to steal equipment and tools from Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls, Montana.
Edmonston, a civilian and a 20-year Air Force veteran, was the Vehicle Management Flight Chief for the 341st Logistics Readiness Squadron (341 LRS) at the time of the thefts. He served as the chief in this squadron as a civilian, and was in charge of approving purchases made with Government Purchase Cards (GPC Cards).
According to documents filed with the court, Edmonston and at least three other individuals, all enlisted in the United States Air Force, worked together to take equipment and tools from the base. They would either purchase items directly for themselves or take items that had been previously purchased with United States Air Force funds.
The scheme was uncovered after a witness came forward to report seeing improper purchases using GPC Cards or taking items that had been previously purchased with United States Air Force funds. The Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI) obtained copies of government emails between Edmonston and other individuals that revealed the extent of Edmonston’s direction and involvement in the scheme.
One email, dated August 2014, showed Edmonston directing a subordinate to purchase an item that would be used for personal gain. In the email, Edmonston wrote, “stuff to stash in back once it rolls in” and the “least amount of people seeing the better.”
Edmonston was sentenced to five years probation and ordered to pay restitution of $5,523.65 to Malmstrom Air Force Base. He was also ordered to comply with any additional conditions that the court may impose.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office.
Edmonston’s sentence is a major blow to those who would seek to exploit their position for personal gain. As a veteran and a civilian in a position of authority, Edmonston abused his power and betrayed the trust of his colleagues and the public.
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Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: White Collar Crime|Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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