Keith Pilawski, a former intramural sports director at MacDill Air Force Base, and Edwin Ortiz, a government contractor, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The charges relate to a scheme that resulted in the theft of more than $150,000 from the base’s intramural sports program.
According to court documents, the fraudulent activity occurred over a 15-year period beginning in 2009. Pilawski used his position to direct all officiating work for the intramural program to Ortiz’s company, disregarding less expensive alternatives. He also arranged game schedules around Ortiz’s availability and approved payments for services not covered by contract or not performed at all. In return, Ortiz provided kickbacks from the overpayments to Pilawski.
As part of their plea agreements, Pilawski has agreed to forfeit $67,183 and Ortiz will forfeit $163,300. Both men face up to 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not been set.
The case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Merrilyn Hoenemeyer.
“United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Keith Pilawski (63, Lutz) and Edwin Ortiz (58, Brandon) have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Pilawski and Ortiz each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. As part of their plea agreements, Pilawski has agreed to forfeit $67,183, and Ortiz has agreed to forfeit $163,300, the proceeds of criminal conduct. A sentencing date has not yet been set.”
