David C. Bohmerwald, owner of Components Cooper, Inc., a Raleigh-based electronics resale business, has pled guilty to attempting to export accelerometer technology with military applications to China without the necessary license. This action violates the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA) and could result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years. The case is part of an investigation by the district's Disruptive Technology Strike Force (DTSF).
Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel Bubar emphasized North Carolina's role as a major tech hub and its vulnerability to foreign adversaries seeking sensitive technology for military purposes. "We’ve launched a multi-agency Disruptive Technology Strike Force cell to shut down international schemes that smuggle sensitive technology and IP to America’s adversaries," Bubar stated.
Jeffrey Levine from the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) highlighted the importance of consistent application of export controls for national security. He noted that "The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is another example of how those agencies with enforcement responsibilities work together."
Cardell T. Morant, Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Charlotte, stressed HSI's commitment to preventing unauthorized use of military-grade equipment: "HSI will aggressively investigate, disrupt, and hold accountable criminals that supply sensitive technology to unauthorized users."
Court documents revealed that Bohmerwald purchased 100 accelerometers from a U.S.-based company and attempted their exportation to China. These devices have various applications, including defense uses like structural testing and navigation systems in missiles. A license is required for such exports.
Law enforcement was alerted by the U.S.-based electronics company due to Bohmerwald’s suspicious purchase request. Despite claiming they were for an end user in Missouri, federal agents found no pending order with that company or Components Cooper.
After receiving the accelerometers, Bohmerwald shipped parcels through FedEx, one addressed to China. An agent detained this package containing 100 accelerometers valued at nearly $20,000 but falsely listed as $100 by Bohmerwald.
Bohmerwald admitted during interviews that he acquired the technology on behalf of a Chinese-based company while knowing it was export-controlled and required licensing.
The case was coordinated through the DTSF co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce targeting illicit actors acquiring critical technology illegally. The investigation involved BIS, FBI, Department of Homeland Security Investigations with prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Logan Liles and Trial Attorney Brendan Geary.