Citation: RESPUBLICA v. SWEERS, 1 U.S. 41 (1779)
Background of the Case:
During the American Revolutionary War, Cornelius Sweers, a Deputy Commissary General of military stores for the Continental Army, was accused of forgery. Sweers allegedly altered a bill of parcels and receipt for goods purchased from Margaret Duncan, with the intent to defraud the United States.
Overview of the Case:
The case involved the prosecution of Cornelius Sweers for forgery. The prosecution aimed to prove that Sweers had fraudulently altered documents to benefit himself at the expense of the United States.
Issue of the Case:
The central issue was whether Sweers’ actions of altering the bill of parcels and receipt constituted forgery and fraud against the United States.
Facts of the Case:
Sweers, in his role as Deputy Commissary General, was responsible for purchasing military supplies. He allegedly altered a bill of parcels and receipt for flannel cloth purchased from Margaret Duncan, changing the quantity and price to defraud the United States1. The prosecution presented evidence of the altered documents and Sweers’ intent to deceive.
Parties to the Case:
- Plaintiff: Respublica (the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania)
- Defendant: Cornelius Sweers
Judgment on the Case:
Sweers was convicted of forgery by a special jury on April 14, 1779. He filed reasons in arrest of judgment, which were overruled by the court on April 19, 1779. The court upheld the conviction, and Sweers was sentenced accordingly
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