Ethics Corner

This series on ethics presents cautionary examples drawn from the DoD Standards of Conduct Office Encyclopedia of Ethical Failures.

If you have questions about ethics or are unsure about a certain course of conduct, contact the NASCC Staff Judge Advocate’s office by calling (361) 961-3535.

Today’s story is about public detriment

A civilian engineering technician assigned to the Public Works Department at Naval Air Station, Corpus Christi, recommended Contract Construction and Fence Company for a $153,000 government contract.

However, behind the scenes, the company had first agreed to pay the government employee $5,000 in exchange for the recommendation, per the employee’s request.

The technician admitted to accepting the bribe in return for his official action that resulted in the contract award.

The Navy debarred the civilian employee for three years, and he left Federal service.