Overview

• Janet Yamanaka Mello, a 57-year-old former civilian finance manager for the US Army, is accused of defrauding the Army of $100 million over a six-year period.
• Mello allegedly used the stolen funds to purchase 80 luxury vehicles and 31 homes across several states.
• She was arrested in December and is due to return to court in February, facing charges including mail fraud and aggravated identity theft.
• Despite the ongoing criminal investigation, Mello has been allowed to retire with full benefits, as the Army has no authority to impact her retirement.
• If found guilty, Mello could face a maximum prison sentence of 142 years.