Baltimore, December 23, 2025
Victor Marquez, a 53-year-old Maryland tech executive, has been indicted on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The indictment alleges he manipulated bids for federal IT contracts and accepted kickbacks, which earned him over $3.8 million. Co-conspirators have pleaded guilty, and Marquez faces up to 20 years in prison for each count if convicted. The investigation involved several federal agencies, highlighting ongoing concerns about procurement fraud in Maryland.
Maryland Tech Executive Indicted for Conspiracy to Defraud Federal Government
Baltimore, Maryland – Victor Marquez, 53, owner of two Maryland-based information technology companies, has been indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and major fraud. The indictment alleges that Marquez orchestrated a scheme to defraud the federal government by rigging bids for IT contracts and accepting kickbacks in exchange for influencing IT procurements.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
According to the indictment, Marquez utilized his access to sensitive procurement information to manipulate bids for large U.S. government IT contracts. He concealed his involvement to maintain access to this information and received compensation in the form of kickbacks from co-conspirators. These payments, referred to as the “Vic tax,” resulted in Marquez obtaining over $3.8 million in funds that were incorporated into the government’s purchase price.
Co-Conspirators’ Plea Agreements
James Briar, an IT sales representative, and Robert Fay, an IT sales executive, have pleaded guilty to related charges. Briar admitted to conspiracy to pay illegal kickbacks, while Fay pleaded guilty to both conspiracy to pay illegal kickbacks and violating the Anti-Kickback Act. Sentencing hearings for both individuals are forthcoming.
Potential Penalties for Marquez
If convicted, Marquez faces significant penalties, including up to 20 years in prison for each conspiracy and wire fraud count, and up to 10 years for the major fraud charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Background on the Investigation
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the FBI Baltimore Field Office, and the National Security Agency Office of Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys from the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Maryland.
Related Cases in Maryland
Maryland has seen several similar cases involving procurement fraud. In July 2023, a Maryland defense contractor was sentenced to almost four years in federal prison for procurement fraud. In March 2025, a Maryland man was sentenced to federal prison for pandemic relief loan fraud and commercial loan fraud.
Contact Information
For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland at (410) 209-4800 or visit their website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Victor Marquez been indicted on?
Victor Marquez has been indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and major fraud.
What is the alleged scheme involving Victor Marquez?
The indictment alleges that Marquez orchestrated a scheme to defraud the federal government by rigging bids for IT contracts and accepting kickbacks in exchange for influencing IT procurements.
What are the potential penalties for Victor Marquez if convicted?
If convicted, Marquez faces up to 20 years in prison for each conspiracy and wire fraud count, and up to 10 years for the major fraud charge.
Who are the co-conspirators in this case?
James Briar, an IT sales representative, and Robert Fay, an IT sales executive, have pleaded guilty to related charges.
Which agencies conducted the investigation into this case?
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the FBI Baltimore Field Office, and the National Security Agency Office of Inspector General.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Victor Marquez, 53, owner of two Maryland-based IT companies |
| Charges | Conspiracy to commit wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud, and major fraud |
| Plea Agreements | James Briar and Robert Fay pleaded guilty to related charges |
| Potential Penalties | Up to 20 years for conspiracy and wire fraud counts, up to 10 years for major fraud |
| Investigation Agencies | Department of Defense, FBI, NSA |
| Related Cases | Similar cases of procurement fraud in Maryland recently |
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