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Las Vegas Contractor Extradited for Bribing US Officials
A Las Vegas-based former contractor has been extradited from Iraq to face fraud and conspiracy charges for attempting to bribe U.S. officials to secure government contracts.
Metin Atilan, 54, a dual U.S. and Turkish citizen, was charged in 2008 with conspiracy to engage in contract fraud, conspiracy to engage in wire fraud, and wire fraud. He is accused of offering bribes and kickbacks to secure contracts for his companies, PMA Services Ltd. and Kayteks Ltd., in connection with U.S. military operations in Iraq.
Atilan was first arrested in Las Vegas on May 23, 2008, but allegedly fled the country after cutting off his electronic bracelet. The government sought his extradition, and Atilan arrived in Dayton, Ohio on July 27, 2014.
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell said, This historic extradition from Iraq to the United States is an example of our cooperation with law enforcement worldwide to bring fugitives to justice. Special Agent in Charge Kevin Cornelius added, This case is a tremendous example of a successfully organized and cooperative law enforcement effort.
Atilan is scheduled to appear before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael R. Merz of the Southern District of Ohio today. He is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dwight Keller with assistance from Trial Attorney Dan E. Stigall and Department of Justice Attaché Ellen Endrizzi.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and Atilan is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case was investigated by the FBI and DCIS, with assistance from Interpol and the Iraqi government.
This historic extradition is a significant example of international cooperation in bringing a fugitive to justice. Atilan’s return to the United States sends a clear message to fugitives: no matter where in the world you try to hide, we will find you, and we will prosecute you.
Key Facts
- State: Federal
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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