Lawsuit Targets Insect Shield LLC for Alleged Misrepresentation in Army Uniform Contracts

Alleged False Claims in Uniform Contracts

The Justice Department has taken legal action against Insect Shield LLC, citing violations under the False Claims Act for purportedly submitting false claims related to contracts providing Army Combat Uniforms. Additionally, the Estate of Richard Lane, the former chief operating officer and majority owner of Insect Shield until his passing in December 2022, faces similar claims in this lawsuit.

Deceptive Practices in Uniform Testing

The crux of the United States’ complaint revolves around allegations concerning the application of permethrin, an insect-repellent substance, to Army uniforms.

Insect Shield, subcontracted by several Army Combat Uniform manufacturers, allegedly engaged in falsifying permethrin testing results to mask failing outcomes. These deceptive practices purportedly involved combining results from different test rounds, relabeling test samples, and exceeding the permitted number of re-tests.

Government’s Stance on Contractor Compliance

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton emphasized the necessity for contractors and subcontractors to fulfill their obligations, particularly in performing required testing activities.

The Justice Department remains resolute in pursuing individuals or entities misrepresenting their compliance with contractual commitments, aiming to safeguard taxpayer interests.

Collaborative Efforts to Ensure Accountability

Government officials, including U.S. Attorney Sandra Hairston and Special Agent in Charge Andrew Johnson of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, underscored their commitment to ensuring accountability.

They emphasized the importance of upholding contractual obligations and testing procedures, particularly for entities contracted by the U.S. Army, to maintain high-quality standards and protect military personnel.

Legal Proceedings and Collaborative Support

The lawsuit, initially brought forward by Emelia Downs, a former Insect Shield employee under the False Claims Act’s whistleblower provisions, saw intervention by the United States.

The case was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, and it is being handled jointly by various government agencies, including the Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and investigative bodies like the DoD Office of Inspector General, Army CID, and the DCAA.

Allegations and Future Determinations

It’s crucial to note that the claims made within the complaint remain allegations at this stage. No determination of liability has been established, and the legal process continues its course.