Indian-Origin Engineer Faces 15-Year Jail Term in US for Moonlighting

An Indian-origin engineer in California faces up to 15 years in prison after being found guilty of secretly working for another technology firm while employed at a major defense contractor. Prosecutors said the dual employment violated federal security protocols tied to US defense projects. Authorities alleged he used classified access for private gain, though his counsel plans to appeal. The trial highlights rising corporate vigilance on moonlighting cases in critical sectors.

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Indian-Origin Engineer Faces 15-Year Jail Term in US for Moonlighting
World • 62 days ago • 1749 views

Indian-Origin Engineer Faces 15-Year Jail Term in US for Moonlighting

IN SHORTAn Indian-origin engineer in California faces up to 15 years in prison after being found guilty of secretly working for another technology firm while employed at a major defense contractor. Prosecutors said the dual employment violated federal security protocols tied to US defense projects. Authorities alleged he used classified access for private gain, though his counsel plans to appeal. The trial highlights rising corporate vigilance on moonlighting cases in critical sectors.

TL;DR

  • A US court convicted Indian-origin engineer Prakash Menon for breaching employment protocols by simultaneously working for two tech companies.
  • One of the roles involved access to restricted defense project data under a federal security agreement.
  • Investigations by the FBI and Department of Justice found Menon used classified credentials for external gain, risking national security.
  • Prosecutors requested a 15-year prison sentence under espionage laws.
  • His defense team claimed oversight rather than intent, signaling plans for appeal.
  • The case underscores mounting scrutiny on moonlighting within sensitive industries like defense technology and aerospace.

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