Retired Captain Haas Sentenced in Navy Bribery Scandal

San Diego – U.S. Navy Captain (Retired) David Williams Haas faced a federal judge’s sentence today for his role in a brazen bribery scheme, receiving 30 months in prison for accepting over $90,000 in bribes from foreign defense contractor Leonard Francis. The punishment included a fine of $30,000 and restitution totaling $90,968.82.

Haas, 54, from Kailua, Hawaii, was accused of using his influence within the Navy’s Seventh Fleet to steer ships to ports controlled by Francis’s GDMA. The bribes were lavished upon Haas through luxurious hotel stays, international travel, and the services of prostitutes.

“Public corruption erodes the very fabric of our democracy,” U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman stated. “Today’s sentencing helps restore that integrity.”

Francis provided Haas with numerous bribes, including a $75,000 party in Tokyo with entertainment at hostess clubs and prostitutes. Another instance saw Francis pay for rooms at the Shangri-La hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia, dinner, and entertainment.

The Director of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) emphasized the importance of accountability. “Mr. Haas’ sentencing demonstrates our commitment to exposing corruption within the Department,” Kelly P. Mayo said.

NCIS Director Omar Lopez highlighted the betrayal by Haas, noting his acceptance of lavish gifts in exchange for official actions. “NCIS remains committed to investigating all allegations of bribery and corruption that threaten naval integrity,” he stated.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark W. Pletcher, Valerie Chu, Michelle Wasserman, and David Chu from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California. Case Number: 18CR3656.

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