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2 Brothers Guilty of Stealing Military Optics
Two brothers, Timothy Oldani, 24, of Scott Depot, W.Va., and Joseph Oldani, 21, of Camp Lejeune, N.C., were caught red-handed in a shocking crime that has left many questioning the inner workings of the United States Marine Corps.
The duo pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal military optics from the U.S. Marine Corps and illegally export them from the United States. This brazen act of theft was uncovered by a joint investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General — Defense Criminal Investigative Service and by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
According to court documents, Joseph Oldani, while on active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps, stole high-grade optics from his station in Kings Bay, Ga. These stolen optics are not the type available for public purchase, but are specially designed for military purposes. In fact, these stolen optics are on the U.S. Munitions List and subject to presidential control as defense articles prohibited from export without a special license.
The investigation revealed that the Oldanis sold and shipped the stolen optics to purchasers in Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan. This egregious act of theft not only puts national security at risk but also highlights the ease with which sensitive military equipment can be compromised.
Both Timothy and Joseph Oldani face up to 60 months in prison and a $250,000 fine when they are sentenced on May 18, 2009. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven I. Loew is handling the prosecution in coordination with the Counterespionage Section of the National Security Division.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for stricter controls on sensitive military equipment. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what other secrets will be uncovered in this shocking case of military optics theft.
**Related Stories:** Marine Corps Under Fire, Military Optics Theft on the Rise
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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