Tulsa firm accused of fraud in federal projects

(Tulsa-AP) -- A Tulsa company denies that parts it manufactured for the international space station and reconnaissance aircraft<br>violated federal contracts.<br><br>A six-count federal indictment issued

Thursday, April 13th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Tulsa-AP) -- A Tulsa company denies that parts it manufactured for the international space station and reconnaissance aircraft
violated federal contracts.

A six-count federal indictment issued today accuses Copeland Manufacturing Corporation of conspiracy, fraud and making false
statements. The indictment alleges C-M-C made improper weld repairs on the parts but sold them anyway.

C-M-C was subcontracted to manufacture eight titanium spoiler-actuator attach fittings for an unmanned, reconnaissance aircraft called Tier Two Plus.

The indictment alleges a C-M-C employee made a mistake on two of the fittings, causing both parts to be gouged.

Donald and Stephen Copeland, the principal managers, are alleged to have conspired to fill the gouges with weld material and conceal
them with primer paint.

Attorney John Thetford is representing Copelands. He says the allegations will be vigorously defended.