According to the DOJ, the bribes—over $1 million—were funneled through Young. Items included cash, homes, jobs for relatives, and NBA tickets.
A USAID official and three executives have pleaded guilty in a bribery scheme involving over $550 million in contracts, the U.S. Department of Justice announced.
Roderick Watson, 57, of Maryland, a USAID contracting officer, admitted to accepting bribes. Walter Barnes, 46, of Maryland; Darryl Britt, 64, of Florida; and Paul Young, 62, of Maryland also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery. Barnes also admitted to securities fraud.
“Watson exploited his position at USAID to line his pockets with bribes in exchange for more than $550 million in contracts,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco. “While he helped three company owners and presidents bypass the fair bidding process, he was showered with cash and lavish gifts.”
According to the DOJ, the bribes—over $1 million—were funneled through Young. Items included cash, homes, jobs for relatives, and NBA tickets.
Watson faces up to 15 years in prison. The other defendants face up to five years each.