Retired Navy commander sentenced in massive bribery scandal

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A retired U.S. Navy commander in Hawaii was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison on Monday for his involvement in a massive bribery scandal.

David Kapaun pleaded guilty to lying about his relationship with Malaysia-based defense contractor Leonard Francis, nicknamed "Fat Leonard."

Francis had admitted to bribing Navy officials with cash, prostitutes and other gifts in exchange for information to help his company, Singapore-based Glenn Defense Marine Asia.

Kapaun admitted to making false statements about his involvement with Francis on a government security clearance form.

"In addition to making false statements in getting a security clearance that he otherwise wouldn't be entitled to, Mr. Kapaun admitted to other uncharged public corruption conduct over the course of years. Specifically he received things of value from Mr. Francis, meals, hotel stays, elicit items and services totaling up to $50,000," said federal prosecutor Mark Pletcher.

Kapaun's defense attorney, Victor Bakke, said his client also didn't disclose receiving dinners, hotel stays and prostitutes from Francis.

"He told the judge today he's deeply remorseful for his conduct and he brought a lot of heartache and turmoil to the service that he loves, to the family that he loves, friends that he's loved and people who had respect in him and for him. So he's sad that he let those people down. But as he told the judge today, he's determined to make amends with those people," Bakke said.

Kapaun is one of nearly two dozen Navy officials charged in the scandal.

Kapaun was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release, pay $75,000 in fines and restitution and perform 200 hours of community service.

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