In recent years, there has been an increase in whistleblower cases filed by the Department of Defense. This is in part a result of a heavier reliance on private security companies and contractors. The result has been an increase of defense contract fraud. When a contractor or company employed by the department of defense is engaging in illegal, fraudulent, or dangerous activities, their actions qualify as defense contract fraud.
Examples of Defense Contract Fraud
One example of such behavior could include billing the Department of Defense for services never performed. Furthermore, mismanaging government funds, or abusing their power as a government contractor also qualify. All of these actions, along with any illegal or unsafe activities, deserve punishment. However, the inspector general of the Department of Defense cannot have eyes everywhere. Because of this, they rely heavily on military members, government employees, and defense intelligence employees to report any evidence of misconduct by defense contractors.
Corrupt contractors may succeed in making a profit off of their illegal activities. However, the government prosecutes defense contract fraud harshly. Whistleblower cases can have various results, in some cases they end in a settlement while in others, a judge passes judgement.
Common Results of Defense Contract Fraud Whistleblower Cases
Below are some results of whistleblower cases associated with defense contract fraud:
- The defendant responsible for illegal use of government funds will plead guilty before the case goes to court. In a guilty plea, there is agreement on a settlement. These settlements are usually large. They represent of the amount of money the government lost as a result of their illegal activity. Whistleblowers involved in these cases are eligible for fifteen to 25 percent of recovered funds.
- The defendant will maintain their innocence and a lawsuit against them goes to court. If there is a guilty verdict, the defendant could pay damages well above the amount of money they stole. Any whistleblowers involved in the case are eligible for fifteen to 25 percent of the recovered funds.
- The defendant will maintain their innocence and a lawsuit against them goes to court. If there is an innocent verdict, they will not have to pay any damages to the United States government. If a whistleblower was involved in the case, they will not be offered any type of reward for their actions.
Any whistleblower case resulting in repayment of illegally obtained government funds is a success. However, in order to succeed, whistleblowers need adequate evidence of fraud and a talented defense contract fraud lawyer. When you hire the right lawyer, they can help you gather evidence. This will increase your chances of winning your lawsuit.
Find out what you need to know about whistleblower cases by calling 770.643.1606 to connect with our team at Bothwell Law Group.