A former Florida-based U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer pleaded guilty on Tuesday to stealing cash from arriving international passengers, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida announced.
William Joseph Timothy, 43, admitted he stole some $18,700 in cash from passengers in 17 separate incidents between mid-2023 and early 2024 at the Naples Airport.
Investigators with the CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility uncovered evidence that showed Timothy was "surreptitiously stealing cash" from arriving international travelers during border enforcement examinations and currency verifications, which were part of his official duties.
Video surveillance from the investigation showed him taking around $2,000 belonging to the passenger during the border enforcement examination in May 2023, the Department of Justice said.
As part of his plea agreement, Timothy agreed to immediately resign from CBP and pay restitution to the victims. He also faces up to ten years in prison, though a sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
