U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that former United States Army reservist Cody Francis pled guilty on September 26, 2024, to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds.
Francis stole $11,378.27 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for performing military funeral honours ceremonies that never actually happened.
The National Defense Authorisation Act of 2000 authorises military funeral honours for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honours, including folding and presenting the United States flag and playing “Taps.”
By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, Francis faces up to five years’ imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
Francis has agreed to repay the Department of the Army for the $11,378.27 in stolen funds.
Francis will be sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown on February 13, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
- Former Army Reservist Cody Francis Guilty of Conspiring to Steal Government Funds - September 30, 2024
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