A U.S. Army captain has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of theft and sale of government property, following an investigation into stolen equipment from Fort Stewart.
Jacob Suenkel, 32, of Richmond Hill, Georgia, admitted to stealing equipment such as skid-steer loaders, UTVs, trailers, generators, welders, commercial grade hand tools, and a tractor from various units at Fort Stewart between late 2024 and May 2025. According to court documents and the plea agreement, Suenkel marketed these items for sale on social media platforms and sold them to buyers who were unaware they were purchasing stolen property.
Suenkel acknowledged that his actions resulted in financial losses exceeding $150,000. As part of his plea agreement, he made an initial payment of $50,000 toward restitution and agreed to be discharged from the Army with an adverse characterization of service. This discharge will lead to the loss of veterans’ benefits.
“Jacob Suenkel violated the trust of his employer and unsuspecting buyers, and is being held accountable for his theft,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret E. Heap. “This guilty plea offers assurance that those who commit theft will be brought to justice.”
Special Agent in Charge Ryan O’Connor of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), Southeast Field Office commented on the broader impact: “Stealing from the Army isn’t simply about lost property; it’s a matter of national security and good stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The Army CID, Fort Stewart Resident Agency was instrumental in the recovery of the stolen equipment and securing this prosecution. Suenkel betrayed not only the US Army, but also the trust placed in him by the American people.”
At sentencing, Suenkel faces up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. He will also be required to pay restitution to victims.
The case was investigated by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division with support from the Richmond Hill Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy P. Dean is prosecuting the case. The United States Attorney’s Office expressed appreciation for assistance provided by military attorneys from the Third Infantry Division’s Office of Staff Judge Advocate.
