Son Gets Probation After Testifying Against Father in Pa. Aircraft Repair Fraud
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A man who pleaded guilty and cooperated with the federal government in a case against his father is getting a big break at sentencing.
Joel Stout admitted that he conspired with his father in a scheme that charged owners of small, private airplanes in Lancaster County, Pa., for inspections and repairs that were not done by FAA-certified personnel (see related story).
Today, Joel Stout, the son, was sentenced in federal court in Philadelphia to five years' probation, even though federal guidelines call for a sentence of about 3-4 years in prison.
Judge Harvey Bartle III acknowledged that Stout's testimony against his father, Jay, and the father's "Flying Tigers" company was truly extraordinary.
"You came in and testified against your father, which was obviously a very difficult thing for anyone to do," the judge told the son. "I also find that your testimony was of material assistance to the government at trial."
Despite the potential danger, authorities say, there were no injuries or deaths resulting from the fraud.
Jay Stout, the father, was convicted at trial (see related story) and is scheduled to be sentenced in July.