Retired Four-Star Admiral Robert P. Burke Convicted in Historic Navy Bribery Case

In a landmark decision, retired U.S. Navy Admiral Robert P. Burke has been found guilty of bribery and related charges, marking the highest-ranking military officer ever convicted of a federal crime committed during active duty.

The Scheme Unveiled

Burke, 62, who served as the Navy’s vice chief of naval operations and later commanded U.S. naval forces in Europe and Africa, was convicted on May 19, 2025, after a five-day trial in Washington, D.C. The charges stem from a 2021 scheme where Burke directed a $355,000 Navy contract to the technology services firm Next Jump in exchange for a lucrative post-retirement job with the company, where he later earned $500,000 annually.

The co-CEOs of Next Jump, Charlie Kim and Meghan Messenger, are scheduled to stand trial in August.

Legal Repercussions

Burke was convicted of bribery, conspiracy to commit bribery, performing acts affecting a personal financial interest, and concealing material facts. He faces up to 20 years for the bribery charges and up to 30 years for charges related to concealing material facts. Sentencing is scheduled for August 22, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Trevor N. McFadden.

Defense and Appeal

Burke’s attorney, Timothy C. Parlatore, criticized the verdict, alleging the government withheld key evidence from the jury and plans to appeal the conviction.

Broader Implications

This conviction underscores ongoing concerns about ethical violations and conflicts of interest involving high-ranking military officials transitioning into the private sector. It also highlights the challenges the Navy faces in maintaining integrity and accountability within its ranks.