Judge Vacates Felony Convictions of Four Navy Officers in ‘Fat Leonard’ Bribery Case, Government’s Prosecution Efforts Setback

In a major setback to the government’s years-long effort to prosecute dozens of military officials tied to defense contractor Leonard Francis, a U.S. District Judge has vacated the felony convictions of four former Navy officers in one of the worst bribery cases in the maritime branch’s history.

The case, which has been ongoing since 2013, involves allegations of bribery and fraud against the contractor, nicknamed “Fat Leonard.” The four officers were tried last year, but Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Ko recently admitted to “serious issues” with prosecutorial misconduct.

In response, U.S. District Judge Janis Sammartino called the misconduct “outrageous” and agreed to allow the four men to plead guilty to a misdemeanor and pay a $100 fine each. The judge also noted that the misconduct had “tainted the entire prosecution” and that the men had been denied their right to a fair trial.

The government’s case against Leonard Francis and the other military officials has been ongoing since 2013. To date, more than 30 people have been charged in connection with the case, including 24 current and former Navy officers. The government has also recovered more than $35 million in fines and restitution.

The vacated convictions are a major setback for the government’s case against Leonard Francis and the other military officials. It remains to be seen how the government will proceed in light of the latest development.