Man Charged With Fraud in Space Parts

HOUSTON (CN) - A 63-year-old businessman was charged with defrauding NASA by selling space vehicle parts with phony quality certifications. NASA ordered the parts for the International Space Station.

Roger Pulley of League City, owner and manager of Aerotech Precision Manufacturing, faces federal charges of fraud involving space vehicle parts and making false statements about a matter within NASA's jurisdiction.

Pulley surrendered last Friday; a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against him in June, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

According to the indictment, Pulley obtained more than 40 contracts from NASA and its main contractor, totaling more than $286,000.

"Pulley allegedly certified the certificates of inspection which stated that all the parts were up to quality standards," the U.S. Attorney's Office said in a statement. "According to the indictment however, the parts - which were to be used on the International Space Station - did not meet tolerance limits and did not conform to the order."

Pulley pleaded not guilty, and was released on a $25,000 bond. His trail is set for Sept. 6, before U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt.

If convicted, he faces a maximum of 10 years and a $250,000 fine for fraud involving space vehicle parts, and up to 5 years and a $250,000 fine for making a false statement.

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