Federal prosecutors have arrested Robert P. Burke, the former vice chief of Navy operations, on serious bribery charges. Burke, 62, of Coconut Creek, Fla., is accused of steering government contracts in exchange for a lucrative job offer after retirement.
During his tenure overseeing American naval forces in Europe, Russia and much of Africa, Burke allegedly directed a contract to an unnamed company in exchange for an annual salary of $500,000 and 100,000 stock options. The company's co-directors, Yongchul “Charlie” Kim, 50, and Meghan Messenger, 47, both of New York, also face charges for their involvement in the scheme.
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From August 2018 to July 2019, the company conducted a pilot workforce training program for a small segment of the Navy. Although the Navy terminated that contract in late 2019 and ordered the company to stop contacting Burke, executives met with him again in July 2021. They suggested he use his influence to land a bigger contract, estimated to be worth “three-digit millions”. ”, in exchange for a post-retirement job.
In October 2022, shortly after he retired, Burke joined the company, which federal prosecutors say was part of the bribery agreement. Burke faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit bribery, bribery, acts affecting personal financial interests and concealment of material facts. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves emphasized the seriousness of the charges, affirming, “The law makes no exceptions for admirals or CEOs. Those who pay and receive bribes must be held accountable.”
The indictment details that Burke ordered a $355,000 contract to train staff in Italy and Spain in December 2021. He then tried to secure a larger contract by making false statements and concealing his labor discussions. Burke's attorney, Timothy C. Parlatore, insists his client is innocent and plans to contest the charges, arguing no prior employment discussions occurred.
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Admiral Burke's distinguished naval career began in 1982, culminating in his role as Vice Chief of Naval Operations and later as Commander, US Naval Forces Europe and Africa, commanding thousands of personnel to upon his retirement in August 2022.
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