US Army Fraud Case: Civilian Worker Accused of $100M Scam Allowed to Retire with Full Benefits

Janet Yamanaka Mello, facing charges including mail fraud and aggravated identity theft, could face up to 142 years in prison if found guilty.

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.