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Joya Williams, 42, faced up to 10 years in prison on the single conspiracy charge in a failed scheme to sell the materials to rival Pepsi for at least $1.5 million. She was convicted Feb. 2 following a jury trial in U.S. District Court in Atlanta, where The Coca-Cola Co. is based, reports AP.
"This is the kind of offense that cannot be tolerated in our society," U.S. District Judge J. Owen Forrester said in imposing sentence.
The Daily News from Long View, Washington, quoted Joya Williams saying: "I can't think of another case in 25 years that there's been so much obstruction of justice," the judge said of Williams' conduct. Forrester ignored a tearful apology by Williams, which was the first time she acknowledged what she did.
"Your honor, I have expanded my consciousness through this devastating experience," Williams said before she was sentenced. "This has been a very defining moment in my life I have become infamous when I never wanted to become famous."
She added, "I am sorry to Coke and I'm sorry to my boss and to you and to my family as well."
"This case is an example of good corporate citizenship leading to a successful prosecution, and that unlawfully gaining a competitive advantage by stealing anothers trade secrets can lead straight to federal prison," US Attorney David Nahmias said on Wednesday. - AFP
Joya Williams was fired as a secretary to Coca-Cola's global brand director at the company's headquarters after the allegations came to light. Her apology lasted several minutes and Williams asked the judge to show mercy.
Eventually Joya Williams was sentenced to Eight Years in Prison. - By HULIQ, Based On Agency Reports.
Posted May 23rd, 2007 by Armen Hareyan
