A former Army official pleaded guilty after allegedly steering contracts for bribes, because apparently military procurement needed a loyalty program
The DOJ says Carlos Duque helped two contractors win subcontracts, inflated government costs to cover the bribes, and received about $55,000 while the Army paid the company more than $3 million.
The Competitive Process Had A Suggested Donation
The Justice Department says former civilian Army official Carlos Duque pleaded guilty to conspiracy, bribery and major fraud related to a technology innovation lab in the Pacific. Prosecutors say that from January 2021 through October 2022, Duque conspired with defense contractors Brian Kent and Leonard Pick.
According to the plea agreement, Duque told prime contractors to award subcontracts to Kent and Pick’s company and helped them inflate government contract costs to include approximately $1.25 million in bribe payments. Duque allegedly received about $55,000, while the Army paid the company more than $3 million.
Taxpayer-Funded Extra Credit
Duque pleaded guilty and agreed to forfeit $55,166.70. Kent and Pick were indicted in May, and their case is scheduled for trial in 2027; those charges remain allegations.
Government procurement is supposed to reward the best offer. This arrangement allegedly rewarded the offer that included a secret envelope, which is technically a pricing model—but not one the auditors enjoy.
The Bottom Line
Duque faces prison and fines under the three charges. The case is another reminder that a corrupt contract does not just waste money: it turns the public’s trust into a line item and sends the bill to everyone wearing a uniform or paying taxes.
Source
U.S. Department of Justice: Former Army official pleads guilty in Hawaii defense-contract case