Former Army Employee Sentenced for Stealing $109 Million in Grant Funds

Janet Mello, 57, used her position to siphon money meant for military families, funding a lavish lifestyle over six years.

Mello created a fake organization to fraudulently secure grant money intended for military children.
She purchased 82 vehicles, multiple properties, and luxury items including $923,000 of jewelry in one day.
Mello pleaded guilty to mail fraud and filing false tax returns, receiving a 15-year federal prison sentence.
Her actions were uncovered due to discrepancies between her reported income and extravagant spending.
Defense claims Mello is remorseful and hopes to reimburse the government by selling her assets.