The Washington Post reported, however, that after a four-year investigation, federal authorities were not able to verify allegations that Vice-Admiral Ted “Twig” Branch (picture above) also partied with prostitutes.
The “extravagant” gifts and parties were given by Leonard Glenn Francis, better known as ‘Fat Leornard’, who was based in Singapore. The scandal itself has come to be known as the “Fat Leornard scandal”.
Francis’ firm held lucrative deals to provide supplies, fuel and port services to Navy vessels in Asia. According to reports, Francis was arrested in a San Diego sting operation in 2012 and pleaded guilty three years later to bribing military officials to steer ships to his port services, defrauding the US Navy of at least US$35 million in bogus fees and overcharges. He is awaiting sentencing.
Last week, two US Navy officers admitted at a court martial hearing to accepting gifts and the services of prostitutes allegedly arranged by Francis or his company. Cmdr Jason Starmer pleaded guilty to willful dereliction of duty, patronising a prostitute and adultery while Capt John Steinberger pleaded guilty to willful dereliction of duty and conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman.
Meanwhile, quoting from new documents, the Washington Post report said Branch, a fighter pilot and aircraft carrier commander who became the steward of the Navy’s secrets, had a decade-long friendship with Francis and that their friendship began when Branch came to Kuala Lumpur on a port visit in 2000.
The report mentioned the occasions both had met and how Francis would host lavish dinners and parties for Branch and his officers, and offer gifts. Branch is said to have sent out messages praising Francis and his company for their “outstanding” customer service on these occasions.
According to the Washington Post report Navy officials found that Branch had accepted illicit gifts from Francis on several occasions, including a ceremonial dagger, a coffee-table book and multiple gifts of cigars
The report said in November 2013, the Navy announced that it had suspended Branch’s access to classified material because he was under criminal investigation by the Justice Department for his ties to Francis.
Branch retired from the military in October 2016, but the investigation of his conduct continued. In September 2017, the Navy announced that the Justice Department had referred the case to the Pentagon after finally deciding not to charge the three-star admiral. The case was closed.
He was cited for four counts of misconduct, but, the report said, no penalties were imposed. The Navy said in September 2017 “administrative action” had been taken against Branch.
The report said, when contacted, Branch declined to comment but confirmed that the documents the Washington Post mentioned pertained to his case.