TAMPA -- A former Tampa resident and scientist has been found guilty of wire fraud by a federal jury Monday.
According to the United States Attorney Office, 53-year-old Akbar Fard defrauded several research institutions and federal agencies, including Small Business Innovation Research and NASA along with other agencies like the United States Navy, out of $2.1 million.
Fard was using the funds meant for furthering and purchasing research materials and the mission of the federal organizations to instead fund his own lifestyle.
Special Agent in Charge, John Corbett of the Central Field Office, made the following statement:
"The NASA Office of Inspector General will continue to aggressively investigate those who undermine and defraud NASA programs and operations. This jury verdict serves as a staunch reminder that such conduct will not be tolerated. The NASA OIG applauds the efforts of the entire investigative and prosecution team during this multi-year investigation, and we look forward to our continued cooperation with our law enforcement partners in the pursuit of justice.”
The jury found Fard guilty and he faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing trial is being planned for May 24, 2018.
Fard's Federal Indictment:
Fard's Federal Complaint:
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