Sailor Sold Gear on eBay: Feds

It took the U.S. Navy more than a year to realize the items were missing

On his LinkedIn profile, Phillip Jamison says he's a naval gunners mate based at the Naval Amphibious Base in Coronado. He also says he manages millions of dollars worth of sensitive military equipment including weapons.

And according to Jamison, his number one job is to make sure the equipment is safe and secure.

But according to a federal indictment, prosecutors say the 11-year Navy veteran was actually stealing some of it and selling it on eBay.

Prosecutors say Jamison stole more than 280 items from the U.S. Navy between October 2008 and September 2009.

The items include tactical flashlights, rifle scopes, laser aiming devices and night vision technology. All of it valued at more than $200,000. 

Some of it going to buyers in other countries including China.

Former federal prosecutor John Kirby questions why it took almost a year before someone realized the items were missing.

"The Navy's got to figure out how this happened and why nobody missed it," Kirby said. "You would think they have inventory controls."

In federal court on Tuesday, Jamison pleaded not guilty to charges that include trafficking stolen government property.

If convicted, he could get up to 30 years in prison, and more than $1 million in fines.

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