TAMPA, FL – A long-running scheme to bleed MacDill Air Force Base’s intramural sports program dry has cracked, with two men admitting guilt in federal court. Keith Pilawski (63, Lutz) and Edwin Ortiz (58, Brandon) both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a crime that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
The pair systematically exploited MacDill’s intramural program over a 15-year period, from 2009 until earlier this year. According to court documents, Pilawski, who served as the intramural sports director, deliberately funneled all officiating contracts to Ortiz’s company, regardless of cost. The arrangement wasn’t about fair bidding; it was about lining their own pockets.
Investigators revealed that Pilawski didn’t just favor Ortiz’s business; he actively manipulated the schedule to accommodate Ortiz and authorized payments for services never rendered or exceeding the scope of their agreement. This wasn’t an oversight; it was a calculated effort to inflate costs and create a slush fund.
The kickback scheme was simple, yet effective. Ortiz would return a portion of the fraudulently obtained payments to Pilawski, effectively splitting the stolen funds. The total haul exceeded $150,000. Pilawski has agreed to forfeit $67,183, while Ortiz will forfeit a staggering $163,300 – representing the proceeds of their criminal activity.
“This case demonstrates a blatant disregard for public trust and the misuse of taxpayer dollars,” stated United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “We will continue to vigorously prosecute those who exploit their positions for personal gain.” The investigation was conducted by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, highlighting the military’s commitment to internal accountability.
Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer is leading the prosecution. While a sentencing date hasn’t been set, both Pilawski and Ortiz now face the prospect of significant prison time for betraying the trust placed in them and stealing from those who serve our country. This case serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly small-scale fraud can have serious consequences.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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