Contracting dispatcher who worked for several carriers pleads guilty to defrauding brokers

A dispatcher pleaded guilty June 24 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud following an investigation by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General.

The DOT found that Bryan Napier, a dispatcher for several trucking companies operating out of Catts Auto Sales in Chavies, Ky., had conspired with others to defraud freight brokers by agreeing to transport cargo loads for a certain price. They would then hold the freight and demand payment before delivery, essentially holding the cargo hostage.

When the brokers filed complaints, Napier and his co-conspirators organized new trucking companies, used false names and continued their schemes.

They also didn’t reveal to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration that they were associated with other FMCSA-regulated companies when opening their new trucking companies, which is a requirement when applying for new FMCSA operating authority.

The DOT conducted the investigation along with the FBI and assistance from the FMCSA.