A retired four-star admiral, Robert Burke, was convicted on corruption charges related to a pilot contract awarded to a company in exchange for a lucrative post-retirement job. He was found guilty of bribery and concealing conflicts of interest, having ordered a $355,000 contract after retiring in 2022, and later accepted a $500,000 annual salary from the same company.
Burke, who previously served as deputy commander of the US 6th Fleet, was indicted in May 2024. The Justice Department stated he colluded with co-defendants Toyongchul “Charlie” Kim and Meghan Messenger to secure contracts for the company, violating Navy policies. Prosecutors noted that Burke failed to disclose these actions while promoting the company’s interests. His conviction marks him as one of the highest-ranking military officials prosecuted in recent years.
US Attorney Janine Piro highlighted the broader commitment to combat corruption within the military. The Navy has faced multiple corruption issues, notably the “Fat Leonard” scandal involving bribery and other misconduct among top officers.
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