Military Misuse Turns Into Luxury Scam

A sergeant stationed at a Phoenix‑area air base is accused of exploiting his position to purchase medical supplies with government funds, then reselling them for profit. Over a four‑year span he allegedly bought thousands of devices from the base pharmacy using taxpayer dollars meant for patient care.

The proceeds were routed through his and his partner’s bank accounts, where they purchased a $1 million house and high‑end cars in Tucson.

The couple’s actions, uncovered during a federal investigation, are said to have cost the Department of War more than $3 million. They reportedly deposited about $11 million in fraud gains into their accounts through wire transfers and other financial moves tied to the resale of the devices. A search warrant in mid‑January led to the seizure of their vehicles and other luxury items.

Officials warned that military personnel are entrusted with large sums to protect the nation, and abusing that trust damages public confidence. The indictment charges them with:

• Conspiracy to steal government property
• Wire fraud
• Money laundering

Sentences for theft of federal property can reach five years; each count of wire fraud may add up to twenty years, while money laundering carries a potential ten‑year term.