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U.S. Department of Justice Stephen J. Murphy Suite 2001 |
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For Immediate Release: June 28, 2007 |
EVENT: Indicted
Defendant: Joseph Patrick Nolan
FORMER PENTASTAR AVIATION EMPLOYEE INDICTED FOR UNLAWFUL COMPUTER INTRUSION
A former information technology employee of Pentastar Aviation, LLC, was indicted today for unlawful computer intrusion into the company’s computer system in 2007 and causing damage to the system by destroying payroll and personnel records, United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy announced today.
U.S. Attorney Murphy was joined in the announcement by Andrew G. Arena, FBI Special Agent in Charge.
Joseph Patrick Nolan, 26, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, was indicted on one count of computer intrusion into the computers of Pentastar Aviation, LLC, a Waterford, Michigan, aviation leasing and maintenance company.
As charged in the indictment, on February 1, 2007, and acting without authorization, Nolan gained access to Pentastar’s computer system and destroyed payroll and personnel records. Repairing the damage cost Pentastar around $30,000.
United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy said, "Keeping our corporate networks secure from unauthorized intrusions is just as crucial as protecting our homes from invasion or our personal property from theft. Fraud artists should realize that we are just as vigilant about protecting virtual and intellectual property as we are any other matter involving theft. I commend the FBI, and the staff at Pentastar, for their investigative work in this case."
Under the statute involving computer intrusion, Nolan faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Varner.