GREENBELT, Md. — Four men, including Roderick Watson, a contracting officer for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), have pleaded guilty in connection to a decade-long bribery scheme involving more than $550 million in U.S. taxpayer funds.
Watson, 57, of Woodstock, Maryland, pled guilty to bribery of a public official. Also pleading guilty were Walter Barnes, 46, of Potomac, Maryland (conspiracy to commit bribery and securities fraud); Darryl Britt, 64, of Myakka City, Florida (conspiracy to commit bribery); and Paul Young, 62, of Columbia, Maryland (conspiracy to commit bribery).
In addition, two USAID contractors, Apprio and Vistant, have agreed to admit criminal liability and enter into three-year deferred prosecution agreements (DPAs). Both companies acknowledged their roles in conspiracy to commit bribery and securities fraud. Their agreements require ongoing cooperation with the Justice Department, implementation of compliance programs, and regular reporting on remediation efforts.
Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, condemned Watson’s actions, stating, “Watson was entrusted to serve the interests of the American people — not his own. His criminal actions undermine the integrity of our public institutions.”
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, emphasized the harm caused by such schemes: “They violated public trust and exploited federal economic programs meant to support small businesses.”
FBI Assistant Director Joe Perez praised the investigation, noting it reflects the agency’s commitment to combating corruption and protecting taxpayers.
The USAID Office of Inspector General also expressed determination to root out fraud within federal assistance programs, highlighting the significance of this case in upholding government contract integrity.
IRS Criminal Investigation Chief Guy Ficco added that their efforts helped end the defendants’ greed and ensured government contracts are awarded based on merit, not corruption.
This case underscores the government’s resolve to hold public servants and contractors accountable for abusing their positions and betraying taxpayer trust.
