As a four-star admiral overseeing Navy operations across Europe, Russia, and Africa, Burke used his position to steer lucrative contracts to a private company in exchange for a promised $500,000-a-year job and stock options after retirement.
The scheme, which unfolded between 2018 and 2022, involved secret meetings, unethical contract approvals, and false statements to federal officials. Burke’s actions were uncovered by a joint investigation led by the FBI, NCIS, and DCIS.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22, 2025. The case has sent shockwaves through military and government circles, highlighting the urgent need for stronger oversight and accountability at the highest levels.
