A US admiral pleaded guilty Thursday to lying about his relationship with a Singapore-based defence contractor at the center of a massive bribery scandal that has tarnished top naval officers. Rear Admiral Robert Gilbeau - the highest-ranking Navy officer charged in the ongoing probe - admitted before a federal judge in San Diego that he had lied when he told investigators that he had never received gifts from Leonard Francis, owner of Glenn Defence Marine Asia (GDMA).
Few admirals in the history of the US Navy have ever been convicted of a felony charge. Gilbeau, 55, told the court that he had misled investigators when he told them he always paid his share when he and Francis dined together about three times a year over a period of several years.
He also admitted that he destroyed documents and deleted computer files when he became aware in September 2013 that Francis and others had been arrested in connection with the fraud and bribery probe. Gilbeau, who was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart during his 37-year career, is scheduled to be sentenced in the case on August 26. His attorney David Benowitz told AFP that he would seek probation for his client while prosecutors have agreed to ask the judge that Gilbeau be sentenced to no more than 12 to 18 months in prison.
According to the plea deal, Gilbeau also agreed to pay $50,000 restitution to the Navy and a $100,000 fine. He will also perform 300 hours of community service. "Of those who wear our nation's uniform in the service of our country, only a select few have been honoured to hold the rank of admiral - and not a single one is above the law," prosecutor Laura Duffy said. "Admiral Gilbeau lied to federal agents investigating corruption and fraud, and then tried to cover up his deception by destroying documents and files." Francis admitted in January that his company, which provided port services, plied naval officers with cash, prostitutes, Cuban cigars and Kobe beef to ensure US Navy ships stopped at ports where GDMA operated.
The Malaysian businessman earned the nickname "Fat Leonard" in maritime circles because of his girth. So far, a total of 14 people, including 11 current and former Navy officials, have been charged in connection with the case. Seven of them have already pleaded guilty and been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 27 months to six and a half years, accompanied by heavy fines.