Retired Navy officer in Hawaii charged in 'Fat Leonard' corruption scandal

HONOLULU — A retired U.S. Navy commander in Hawaii is charged in a growing corruption scandal involving a Malaysian defense contractor.

David Kapaun is scheduled to plead guilty Tuesday in Honolulu federal court to lying about his relationship with Leonard Francis, nicknamed "Fat Leonard." Kapaun's defense attorney, Victor Bakke, says his client also didn't disclose receiving dinners, hotel stays and prostitutes from Francis.

Francis has admitted bribing Navy officials with cash, prostitutes and other gifts in exchange for information to help his company. He's awaiting sentencing.

Kapaun isn't charged with bribery.

Bakke says Kapaun regrets being seduced by Francis. Bakke says the allegations prompted Kapaun to resign earlier this year from his civilian position as deputy chief of staff for U.S. Special Operations Command Pacific.

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