Anniston, AL – Eight individuals have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a scheme to steal government-owned property from the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD). Over several years, police officers and civilian employees at ANAD conspired to steal millions of dollars worth of military property, which was then sold through middlemen to a military surplus store owner.
According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, the stolen items included sophisticated equipment designed for military weapon systems, providing operators with enhanced nighttime engagement capabilities and improved target acquisition.
The individuals sentenced and their respective penalties are as follows:
- Steve Bonner, 63, of Goodwater, a middleman, was found guilty after a four-day trial. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison and ordered to pay $1,873,200 in restitution to the United States Department of Defense.
- Jerry Baker, 63, of Hokes Bluff, a Captain with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty. He received a 25-month prison sentence and must pay $3,750,000 in restitution.
- Kelvin Battle, 54, of Anniston, a Sergeant with the Directorate of Emergency Services, also pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 21 months in prison and ordered to pay $2,414,582 in restitution.
- Eric Matraia, 54, of Munford, a guard with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 16 months in prison with $3,000,000 in restitution.
- Shane Farthing, 42, of Gadsden, another guard with the Directorate of Emergency Services, pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison and must pay $707,000 in restitution.
- Christopher Price, 55, of Childersburg, the owner of a military surplus store in Sylacauga, pleaded guilty. He received a 14-month prison sentence and was ordered to pay $3,940,940 in restitution.
- James Kenneth Scott, 73, of Sylacauga, a middleman, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 12 months in prison with $3,500,000 in restitution.
- Scott Bunch, 54, of Alexandria, a Defense Logistics Agency supervisor, pleaded guilty. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison and ordered to pay $3,750,000 in restitution.
The Calhoun Journal originally reported on the convictions on December 13, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona emphasized the seriousness of the crime and the commitment of law enforcement to prosecute those involved. “These sentences send a clear message that such criminal conduct will not be tolerated,” Escalona stated. “The successful investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the dedication of our law enforcement partners and prosecutors to ensure that these defendants were brought to justice.”
The stolen military property was diverted from ANAD warehouses to middlemen and ultimately sold by the military surplus store owner, with the proceeds split among the conspirators. The significant restitution amounts ordered reflect the substantial financial impact of the thefts on the United States Department of Defense.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of federal authorities to protect government property and ensure that those who engage in criminal activities are held accountable.
