Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Robert Burke of Coconut Creek, Florida, was convicted on federal charges including bribery, conspiracy, and concealing material facts. A Washington, D.C., jury found that Burke used his influence to secure Navy contracts in exchange for a promised job at Firm A, a private company previously barred from Navy dealings.

Despite the prohibition, Burke rekindled ties in 2021 and awarded the firm a $355,000 contract for training in Europe. He later advocated for larger deals before joining the company in October 2022 with a $500,000 salary and stock options. Prosecutors proved he misled officials and concealed the relationship, violating ethics rules. The Justice Department, FBI, NCIS, and other agencies jointly investigated the case. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden set sentencing for August 22, 2025. Once a respected four-star admiral, Burke now faces prison and a loss of benefits, underscoring that no one — regardless of rank — is above the law.