WASHINGTON, D.C.– A former USAID contracting officer and three private-sector executives pleaded guilty today to participating in a scheme that diverted more than $550 million in U.S. development contracts in exchange for bribes and other illicit benefits.
Roderick Watson, 57, a former USAID contracting officer, admitted to accepting cash payments, luxury NBA suite tickets, electronics, and down-payments on two mortgages in return for steering contracts. Walter Barnes, 46, owner and president of PM Consulting Group LLC (d/b/a Vistant), pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery and securities fraud. Darryl Britt, 64, owner and president of Apprio, Inc., pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bribery. Paul Young, 62, president of a USAID subcontractor, admitted to conspiracy to commit bribery.
Between 2013 and 2022, Watson manipulated the procurement process to award 14 prime contracts—totaling more than $550 million—to Apprio and Vistant without competitive bidding. In return, Watson received a variety of improper benefits, and the companies misrepresented contract-related expenses and financial statements to investors.
Apprio and Vistant have each entered into three-year Deferred Prosecution Agreements, acknowledging criminal liability, agreeing to implement enhanced compliance programs and committing to cooperate with ongoing investigations. Both companies also face substantial civil penalties.
“This case demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of U.S. foreign assistance programs,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Chief of the Criminal Division. “Those who seek to exploit taxpayer dollars for personal gain will be held accountable.”
The plea agreements underscore heightened DOJ scrutiny of federal contracting practices and signal continued enforcement efforts to combat corruption in government procurement.
