[ad_1]
Former VA Employee Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Kickback Scheme

Thomas E. Duncan, a former procurement supervisor at the Jesse Brown Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Chicago, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for his involvement in a kickback scheme. The scheme involved Duncan receiving kickbacks from Daniel Dingle, the president of a Dolton medical supply company, in exchange for steering VA orders that were never fulfilled.

The scheme, which began in 2012 and lasted until 2019, saw Duncan receiving cash and checks from Dingle, disguised as payments to a third-party entity managed by Duncan. Duncan used his position at the VA to fraudulently approve purchases from Dingle’s company, knowing that many products wouldn’t be delivered. As the VA Inspector General’s Office investigated, Duncan created fake invoices and instructed Dingle to deceive investigators.

Duncan pleaded guilty to wire fraud last year and has been ordered to pay $1,709,344 in restitution. Dingle, 53, of Riverdale, has also pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing for wire fraud.

This case highlights the importance of integrity and transparency in government procurement processes. The VA and law enforcement authorities are cracking down on corruption and ensuring that those involved in fraudulent activities are held accountable. The sentencing of Duncan and the pending sentencing of Dingle serve as a warning to others who may be tempted to engage in similar schemes. Justice has been served in this case, and efforts to prevent future instances of fraud and corruption within the VA system are ongoing.

Source
Photo credit www.fox32chicago.com