Grimy Times has uncovered a shocking case of embezzlement involving two high-ranking members of the West Virginia Army National Guard. Sergeant First Class Shane Morgan, 35, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, and his father, Master Sergeant (retired) Russell Morgan, 61, of Helvetia, West Virginia, have each pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Embezzle Government Property.
According to court documents, the duo conspired to steal at least 80 items of United States government property worth an estimated total of more than $80,000. The crimes took place from August 2010 to October 2017 in Upshur County. Morgan’s position at the United States Property and Fiscal Office warehouse in Buckhannon granted him access to the property, which he and his father exploited for their personal gain.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Cogar is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, while the West Virginia Army National Guard and the West Virginia State Police conducted the investigation. U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided over the case.
The consequences for the Morgans are severe. Each faces up to five years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Grimy Times has obtained records showing that the embezzled items include a variety of goods, including equipment and other supplies. The full extent of the embezzlement scheme is still unclear, but it is evident that the Morgans’ actions compromised the integrity of the U.S. military and the public trust.
The guilty pleas mark a significant blow to the West Virginia Army National Guard and the U.S. military as a whole. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for robust internal controls to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The investigation and prosecution of the Morgans serve as a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold individuals accountable for their crimes. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Public Corruption|White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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