In most cases, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) governs the actions of service members. The military courts have sole jurisdiction over members of our military in many situations. Crimes involving murder, rape, and robbery committed off-base are often handled through the military courts. However, there are a few situations in which civilian courts could have jurisdiction over service members who commit civilian crimes. […]
Substance abuse is a serious problem in the United States. Many people struggle with drug addiction and alcoholism, including veterans and active duty service members. The unique stresses and requirements faced by military personnel increase the risk of substance abuse. What Are the Statistics for Substance Abuse Among Military Personnel? There is a zero-tolerance policy in the military for the use of illicit drugs. However, […]
Military members cannot leave without permission. They can be charged with absence without leave, or “AWOL.” Article 86 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice makes AWOL a punishable offense. Being absent without leave is a lesser offense and different from a charge of desertion. However, the penalties for being AWOL can be severe. If you are accused of going AWOL, it is in your […]
You would think that a military base is one of the safest places to be in the United States. You are surrounded by men and women who have the best training in defense. Unfortunately, military bases are not immune to criminal activity. Murder on Military Bases Shootings and other acts of homicide are generally the most publicly reported crimes that occur on military bases. News […]
A new report has been issued by the Defense Advisory Committee on Investigation, Prosecution, and Defense of Sexual Assault in the Armed Forces (DAC-IPAD). This Advisory Committee works with the Secretary of Defense. The report covers rape and sexual assault cases across all the armed forces. The report concluded that too many military cases of rape and other forms of sexual assault are being brought […]
A nervous shopper enters a store, looking over their shoulder as they move into the electronics section. One last quick peek and then, snatch, they grab something from the shelf and stuff it inside their coat pocket. While this scenario might be unfamiliar to many, it is something that happens every day around the country. Statistics from 2019 indicate that thousands of individuals commit larceny, […]
Statutory rape usually occurs between two people who want to have sex with each other. The problem, however, is that one person is not able to give consent – simply because they’re too young to legally give consent to the act. That’s when charges for statutory rape can become a reality for one or both partners. Jurisdictions Differ Regarding the Age of Consent States treat […]
A recent fire on the Bonhomme Richard, docked in San Diego may be the result of arson by a navy sailor. The Bonhomme Richard is a smaller amphibious assault vessel, designed to carry thousands of Marines, helicopters, and vertical-takeoff jets. It can also double as a small Naval aircraft carrier. The vessel had been docked in San Diego undergoing an extensive upgrade which was near […]
Driving a car comes with enormous responsibilities we don’t often think about every time we hit the road. There’s a mutual understanding with the state and other drivers that we’ve taken certain precautions. From things like being licensed to drive in the first place to following all traffic laws. There’s also another—an implicit agreement to take care of our cars and ensure they’ve been inspected […]
After being charged with a crime, it is critical to find a good lawyer – and fast. When it comes to your future, trusting the first lawyer that pops up on a Google search can be a big gamble. When you are facing criminal charges, there are ways to find the best criminal defense lawyer to meet your needs. Starting Your Search For a lawyer […]