Key Takeaways
- David C. Bohmerwald, owner of Components Cooper Inc., pleaded guilty to attempting to export military-sensitive technology to China.
- Bohmerwald attempted to ship 100 accelerometers, crucial for military applications, without the necessary export license.
- The Export Control Reform Act allows the government to restrict sensitive technology exports to protect national security interests.
Details of the Case
David C. Bohmerwald, the owner of Components Cooper Inc. based in Raleigh, North Carolina, has pleaded guilty to an attempt to unlawfully export technology with military applications to China, according to a statement released by the U.S. Department of Justice. Bohmerwald’s actions have been identified as a violation of the Export Control Reform Act (ECRA), a law designed to safeguard national security by regulating the export of sensitive technologies.
The specific technology involved in this case is accelerometers, which play a vital role in military operations. They are essential components for structural testing, monitoring, and the efficient operation of flight control and navigation systems. Notably, these devices can enhance missile accuracy and assess the impact of munitions on various structures.
Bohmerwald’s attempt involved shipping 100 accelerometers to a Chinese company without the requisite export license. The Department of Justice highlighted that exporting these devices to China is subject to strict regulations, necessitating proper licensing to ensure that such technology does not compromise U.S. national security.
In the course of investigating this case, it was revealed that when Bohmerwald purchased the accelerometers, he misrepresented their intended destination. He claimed they were meant for an end user located in Missouri. However, further inquiries by federal agents into the Missouri company revealed that there was no pending order for the accelerometers from Bohmerwald or his business, casting doubt on his intentions.
This case underscores the government’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring and enforcing export controls on technologies that could potentially enhance the military capabilities of foreign adversaries. The conviction serves as a reminder of the legal repercussions associated with breaching these regulations and the importance of compliance in maintaining national security.
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