By Debbie Gregory.
Army Colonel Anthony Roper, along with his wife and others, has been accused of participating in what federal prosecutors are calling a bribery and kickback scheme. They allegedly conspired to seek and accept bribes in order to rig more than $20 million in Army contracts to individuals and companies.
It is alleged that the activities go back to 2008, lasting close to a decade.
Colonel Roper was stationed at Fort Gordon near Augusta, Georgia. Oversight of the Army’s efforts to build and modernize its information and communications networks was part of Colonel Roper’s duties.
Charged with bribery, obstruction and making false statements, the 55-year-old Roper could face a maximum sentence of eighty-five years and a fine of $1.75 million if convicted.
His wife, Audra Roper, was also charged with conspiracy, false statements and obstruction and could face a maximum sentence of twenty-five years and a $750,000 fine.
Mrs. Roper operated Quadar Group, which prosecutors allege was a shell company that was used to funnel bribes to her husband, Colonel Roper. Prosecutors allege that Quadar Group was one of a number of shell companies used to defraud the government.
Dwayne Oswald Fulton, 58, is charged with conspiracy and obstruction. Mr. Fulton was an officer for a large defense contracting company. His firm is not identified in the court records.
The indictment also alleges that in trying to hide the schemes, the three accused attempted to obstruct an official investigation looking into their conduct.
Fort Gordon has not commented on these allegations. According to court records filed this week, attorneys representing the defendants are not listed.
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