Ex-PNP chief Versoza acquitted, 5 others found guilty in chopper scam

MANILA, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan on Friday acquitted former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Jesus Versoza of graft in relation to the 2009 helicopter scam.

Also acquitted are the following:

• Police Deputy Director General Jefferson Soriano
• Police Superintendent Roman Loreto
• Police Director George Piano
• Police Superintendent Edgar Paatan
• Police Chief Inspector Maria Josefina Recometa
• Police Superintendent Claudio Gaspar Jr.
• Police Superintendent Luis Saligumba
• Police Superintendent Job Nolan Antonio
• Senior Police Officer 3 Ma. Linda Padojinog
• Police Officer 3 Avensuel Go Dy
• Ruben Gongona

READ: What Went Before: The Secondhand Chopper Scam

However, the five individuals were found guilty of graft beyond reasonable doubt: Police Director Luizo Ticman, Police Director Ronald Roderos, Police Director Romeo Hilomen, Police Director Leocadio Santiago Jr., and Hilaro de Vera.

The case stemmed from revelations that two Robinson R44 Raven 1 helicopters purchased by the PNP in 2009 belonged to former First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo and were made to appear brand new.

READ: Sen. Lacson tags ex-PNP chief Versoza as ‘missing link’ in chopper sale

The purchase order was approved and signed by Verzosa.

Arroyo faced graft charges in relation to the chopper deal which were later junked by the Sandiganbayan.