Russell Thurston, a former executive vice president at Cambridge International Systems, Inc., admitted guilt in federal court to participating in a bribery scheme involving government contracts. The company, based in Arlington, Virginia, was implicated alongside James Soriano, a former employee of the Naval Information Warfare Center.
Thurston's plea agreement revealed that he and other employees provided various benefits to Soriano. These included expensive meals in San Diego, a ticket to the 2018 Major League Baseball All-Star Game in Washington, D.C., and employment for Soriano's acquaintance Liberty Gutierrez. As part of her plea agreement, Gutierrez acknowledged performing minimal work while giving Soriano $2,000 monthly from her salary.
Soriano used his position as a contracting officer’s representative to influence contract awards for Cambridge. His actions resulted in the government obligating over $32 million on one task order and more than $100 million on another. He also allowed Cambridge staff to draft procurement documents even when competing against other bidders. Thurston reportedly received bonuses totaling between $150,000 and $250,000 from these profits.
Sentencing for Thurston is scheduled for April 11, 2025. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden emphasized the importance of integrity in procurement processes: “This guilty plea shows a commitment to that principle by holding accountable a defendant who repeatedly bribed a government employee.”
Bryan D. Denny from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service stated that Thurston’s admission is “a positive step toward accountability.” Tyler Hatcher of IRS Criminal Investigation highlighted how such actions undermine defense contracting processes vital for servicemembers' safety.
Weston King from SBA OIG underscored their commitment to pursuing those exploiting federal programs: “Our Office will remain relentless in the pursuit of those who seek to exploit SBA’s vital economic programs.”
Cambridge pleaded guilty separately and agreed to forfeit profits amounting to over $1.67 million while paying a fine of $2.25 million.
James Soriano has also been charged with conspiracy related offenses and awaits sentencing on May 9, 2025.
The case is prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick C. Swan, Katherine E.A. McGrath, and Carling E. Donovan with investigations conducted by multiple agencies including Defense Criminal Investigative Service and IRS Criminal Investigation.
For information regarding fraud or abuse concerning Department of Defense personnel or operations contact DoD Hotline at 800-424-9098.