BECKLEY, W.Va. — A Raleigh County pharmacist has been sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for her role in a scheme involving fake government contracts.
Natalie Cochran, 40, of Daniels, pleaded guilty last September to wire fraud and money laundering. She admitted to encourage people to invest in Technology Management Solutions and Tactical Solutions Group, as well as fake government contracts, by making false statements about her and the companies’ work.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Cochran convinced 11 people to invest around $2.5 million in alleged contracts and an investor to send more than $510,000 through a wire transfer.
Cochran used the money for personal expenses, such as a 1965 Shelby Cobra and two pieces of real property.
U.S. District Judge Frank Volk imposed a sentence of 135 months. As part of her plea agreement, Cochran agreed to forfeit assets obtained through her activities.