A Jefferson City man was recently sentenced to serve prison time for fraudulently soliciting donations to the "Wounded Warrior Project."
The Phelps County prosecutor's office said James Fortner, 34, was sentenced to four years each on two counts of forgery.
Senior Judge D. Gregory Warren denied Andrew Fortner's request for probation and instead sentenced him to prison for using fake literature and trademarked logos.
In 2013, Fortner was twice captured on surveillance footage at the St. James Country Mart where he was actively soliciting and receiving donations for the Wounded Warrior Project, officials said. Representatives from Wounded Warriors said the charity does not use storefront fundraising, nor have any donations ever been received by or from Fortner.
At the time of the incidents, Fortner was in the United States Army Reserves, serving as a sergeant, court records show. Subsequently, Fortner was discharged for unsatisfied participation, with a discharge status showing his demotion from a sergeant to a private Class E-1.
A spokesperson for the United States recruitment office in Rolla told authorities Fortner, "is a perpetual, habitual liar and has done a disservice."
Phelps County Prosecutor Brendon Fox said, "This case hopefully will make people more aware of the importance of making sure their contributions are made through legitimate channels."