Leonard Glenn Francis, also known as “Fat Leonard,” has been sentenced after 11 years since his initial arrest for orchestrating one of the largest bribery and corruption scandals in U.S. military history.
The former military defense contractor was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his involvement in a decade-long scheme that implicated numerous U.S. Navy officials. Additionally, he has been ordered to pay $20 million in restitution to the Navy and a $150,000 fine, as per the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Francis had originally been scheduled for sentencing in September 2022 but absconded by cutting off his GPS monitor and fleeing the country. He was apprehended in Venezuela in 2023 and extradited back to the U.S.
‘FAT LEONARD’ FACES SENTENCING IN NAVY BRIBERY SCANDAL
His sentencing encompasses his role in the bribery scheme as well as his attempt to flee the country. He will receive credit for time served in custody both in the U.S. and Venezuela, totaling more than 6 years.
Francis confessed to authorities that he provided free meals, prostitutes, and other favors to Naval personnel in exchange for their assistance in securing port visits by Naval vessels to locations under his control. Subsequently, he overcharged the Navy by more than $35 million for his services.
“Leonard Francis enriched himself with public funds while undermining the credibility of the U.S. Naval forces,” stated U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The repercussions of his deception and manipulation will be enduring, but justice has been served today.”
Prosecutors characterized his conduct as “aggravated and egregious”, but acknowledged his cooperation by providing “detailed information on hundreds of individuals, ranging from petty officers to admirals, including captains, commanders, Vice Admirals, and Rear Admirals,” according to prosecutors.
‘FAT LEONARD’ CUTS ANKLE MONITOR WEEKS BEFORE SENTENCING IN $35 MILLION US NAVY CORRUPTION SCANDAL
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Following his apprehension, nearly 1,000 Navy officers came under investigation, including 91 admirals.
Federal prosecutors brought charges against 34 defendants, with 33 being convicted after Francis collaborated with authorities while in U.S. custody.
Fox News Digital’s Chris Pandolfo and the Associated Press contributed to this report.