MISSOULA, MT – In a stunning revelation from the U.S. Attorney’s office, former US Forest Service law enforcement officer Nathan J. Snead, 48, of Thompson Falls, has been sentenced to five years of probation for his fraudulent time and attendance records. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme, who also ordered Snead to pay restitution totaling $13,923.77.
Snead, a man who once upheld the law, pleaded guilty in April 2025 to charges of theft of government money. The plea came after an extensive investigation that exposed his deception involving administrative uncontrollable overtime, designed to compensate law enforcement officers for irregular and unscheduled duty.
According to court documents, Snead was expected to work a 40-hour week but falsified records to claim additional hours. His fraudulent certifications included claims of working regular shifts while his patrol vehicle remained stationary at home. The scheme went undetected until May 2, 2023, when agents installed a GPS tracker on his vehicle, revealing the truth.
The evidence was chilling: Snead’s patrol vehicle sat idle while he claimed to be on overtime duty. His productivity levels were also suspiciously low compared to his peers. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Clarke led the prosecution, with the investigation being conducted by the U.S. Forest Service, Law Enforcement and Investigations, Office of Professional Responsibility.
U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided over the sentencing hearing. As the judge sentenced Snead to probation and restitution, it was a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who betray public trust.
This case serves as a cautionary tale for law enforcement officers across the nation, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability in positions of power. The justice system has spoken, and Nathan J. Snead will now pay the price for his deceitful actions.
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Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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