John D. Walker, former CEO of Hansen Helicopters, Inc., has been sentenced to 405 months in federal prison for criminal aviation violations, including fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering. The sentencing was handed down by Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood in the District Court of Guam on June 9, 2025.
Fraudulent Aviation Scheme and Convictions
Walker was convicted on 110 counts, including:
- Conspiracy to defraud the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
- Aircraft parts fraud resulting in serious bodily injury and death
- Employing uncertified mechanics
- Helicopter registration violations
- Wire fraud and money laundering
Walker was ordered to pay a $250,000 fine and a $9,900 special assessment fee. He also forfeited $58.4 million in fraud proceeds and $11.77 million linked to money laundering.
Hansen Helicopters’ Penalties
Hansen Helicopters, Inc. was found guilty of conspiracy to defraud federal aviation regulators and aircraft parts fraud. The company was sentenced to five years of probation, a $4.9 million fine, and a $2,000 special assessment fee.
Illegal Operations and Safety Violations
Walker used 48 shell companies, many incorporated internationally, to lease unregistered and unairworthy helicopters to tuna boat companies. His fraudulent operations generated over $400 million, relying on forged documents, counterfeit aircraft parts, and bribery of aviation officials.
Statements from Officials
U.S. Attorney Shawn N. Anderson condemned Walker’s actions, stating:
“The defendants built helicopters from discarded frames and counterfeit parts, blatantly disregarding aviation laws. Their greed resulted in the deaths of many pilots.”
Special Agent in Charge Cory LeGars of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General emphasized the catastrophic consequences of Walker’s fraud, while IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent Adam Jobes highlighted the human cost of financial crime.
Investigation and Prosecution
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation, FAA, IRS Criminal Investigation, FBI, and the Customs and Quarantine Agency of Guam. Prosecutors included Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen F. Leon Guerrero, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie L. Miller, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Samantha R. Miller.
For more details, visit Justice.gov.
