Former Army Reservist Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Government Funds

NEW ORLEANS – On August 15, 2023, former United States Army reservist DERRICK BRANCH pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. BRANCH stole $15,469.30 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never 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, BRANCH faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, 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.  BRANCH has agreed to pay restitution to the United States Army in the amount of $15,469.30.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.