Former Army Reservist Guilty of Conspiring to Steal Government Funds

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that former United States Army reservist CODY FRANCIS ("FRANCIS"), pled guilty on September 26, 2024 to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds. FRANCIS stole $11,378.27 from the United States Department of the Army, by claiming reimbursement for performing military funeral honors ceremonies that never actually happened.

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family's request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of "Taps."

By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, FRANCIS faces up to five (5) yearsimprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. FRANCIS has agreed to repay the Department of the Army for the $11,378.27 in stolen funds. FRANCIS will be sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown on February 13, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.