Executive Summary
Laws and Precedent
A Tallahassee man, Anthony Curtis Brewer, 47, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of theft of government property, specifically funds belonging to the Department of Veterans Affairs. The charges were announced by United States Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida. Brewer faces a potential sentence of up to ten years in federal prison if convicted.
The Allegations
The indictment alleges that Brewer unlawfully took funds from the Department of Veterans Affairs. While specific details of the alleged theft were not immediately released, the charge of theft of government property carries significant legal consequences.
This federal charge underscores the serious nature of misusing public funds, particularly those designated for veterans’ services. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides critical support and benefits to those who have served the nation.
Court Proceedings
Brewer made his initial appearance for arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick on September 3, 2025, in federal court in Tallahassee. During this proceeding, he was formally read the charges against him.
A trial in the case has been scheduled for November 4, 2025. Chief United States District Judge Allen Winsor will preside over the proceedings, which will take place in Tallahassee, Florida.
Investigation Details
The investigation into Brewer’s alleged activities was conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division. This agency is responsible for rooting out fraud and misconduct within the VA system.
Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The case highlights the Department of Justice’s ongoing commitment to protecting federal funds and ensuring the integrity of programs designed to support veterans. The legal process will now unfold to determine Brewer’s culpability in the alleged theft.
