Sumner resident Steve A. Bennest, 57, was sentenced Tuesday in United States District Court in Seattle for falsely claiming to be the recipient of military medals in order to receive benefits.

According to court documents, in 2008, Bennest, a former reserve officer for the Pacific Police Department, made claims for military compensation and stated he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

The Bronze Star is awarded to soldiers who made an “extraordinary contribution to the United States national defense.” The Purple Heart is awarded to soldiers who achieved valor and were “wounded in combat by hostile fire.” While Bennest served in the U.S. Army between 1969 and 1972, he was not awarded any of these medals.

United States Magistrate Judge Brian A. Tsuchida told Bennest that his conduct was “shameful and hurtful to other soldiers” and sentenced the defendant to 24 months probation. As part of his probation, Bennest was ordered to perform community service and to participate in a structured U.S. probation program known as “Moral Reconation Therapy,” designed to help those with trouble recognizing right from wrong.