Joseph Patrick Nolan, 26, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, was found guilty today for unlawful computer intrusion and causing damage to the system by destroying payroll and personnel records, United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy announced.
Murphy was joined in the announcement by Andrew G. Arena, FBI Special Agent in Charge.
The evidence at trial showed, on February 1, 2007, Joseph Patrick Nolan, was a former employee of Pentastar Aviation, LLC, a Waterford, Michigan aviation leasing and maintenance company. On that date, and acting without authorization, Nolan gained unauthorized access to Pentastar’s computer system and destroyed payroll and personnel records. Repairing the damage caused from this intrusion, cost Pentastar in excess of $50,000.
United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy said, “Computer security is a fundamental component of our nation’s security. Those who may have the technical ability to breach the walls protecting our computer networks should realize that doing so is a serious federal offense that will be prosecuted. I commend the FBI, and the staff at Pentastar, for their investigative work.” Under the statute involving computer intrusion, Nolan faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. A sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for January 24, 2008.
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