Fort Stewart Army Officer Pleads Guilty to Theft and Sale of Government Property

SAVANNAH, Ga.—A U.S. Army captain has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of theft and sale of government property.

Jacob Suenkel, 32, of Richmond Hill, Georgia, was a commissioned officer at Fort Stewart when he stole valuable equipment from various Army units between late 2024 and May 2025. According to court documents, the stolen items included skid-steer loaders, UTVs, generators, and a tractor. Suenkel then sold the equipment to unsuspecting buyers through social media.

As part of his plea agreement, Suenkel admitted that his actions resulted in a financial loss of over $150,000. He has made an initial payment of $50,000 toward restitution and has agreed to be discharged from the Army, which will result in the loss of his 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.

The case was investigated by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the Richmond Hill Police Department. Suenkel faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He will also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his crimes.