Hessman was a Barrayaran admiral in charge of procurement for the Barrayaran Imperial Service. He was the political ally of Count Vordrozda, and conspired with him to kill Ivan Vorpatril and convict Miles Vorkosigan of treason for violating Vorloupulous's Law. Miles Vorkosigan confronted Hessman about the courier sabotage, and Hessman fingered his partner in crime Vordrozda. The furious Vordrozda drew a needler in the Emperor's presence, and was subdued by his fellow counts. Both conspirators were then arrested and removed from the Council chambers.