FBI arrests two Wood Dale men for defrauding American Airlines

Two Wood Dale men have been arrested by FBI agents for allegedly defrauding American Airlines out of more than $3 million over five years, authorities said Friday.

American Airlines employee Gary M. Aumann, 65, of 465 Dominion Court, and Donald E. Down, 53, of 233 Dalewood Drive, were arrested without incident at their homes, FBI officials said.

Both men could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

Agents also seized 14 vehicles, several bank accounts and three homes, valued at a total of about $750,000, which officials said they suspect were bought with embezzled money.

According to the complaint, Aumann, a 39-year American Airline veteran, worked as a facilities maintenance manager in charge of purchasing parts and services from vendors to maintain terminals, hangers, ramps and cargo areas.

The complaint alleges he approved more than $3 million worth of orders and invoices from two companies owned by Down -- A & D supplies and Addison Business Supplies.

But FBI officials say the companies didn't exist and American Airlines received no parts or services.

Instead, the men split the money to purchase SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, real estate in Illinois and Missouri, yachts, power boats and jewelry, according to the complaint.

They were each charged Thursday with one count of mail fraud and conspiracy.

They are scheduled to appear in court next week in Chicago in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Sidney I. Schenkier.