Domestic violence offenders: the rest of the story

  • Published
  • By Capt. Sondra Bell
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Legal Office
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. (AFPN) --  Domestic violence is a problem nationwide, and the military is not exempt. However, Department of Defense officials have made a substantial commitment of resources over the past two decades to address domestic violence in the military.

Domestic violence happens in military families of all ranks and ages. But few people are aware of what happens after an Airman beats his wife and the neighbors call the police, or what happens after a wife hits her military husband with a frying pan

When these scenarios occur on base, security forces perform an initial investigation and immediately notify family advocacy officials and the servicemember’s commander.

While military offenders living off-base are subject to jurisdiction of local police departments, base legal officials normally request jurisdiction in these cases and are often successful in doing so. In cases where jurisdiction is given to military authorities, the offenders are subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Depending on the facts and circumstances, rehabilitative or punitive action may be taken.

Committing domestic violence can be a career-ending act for all military offenders.

The 1996 Lautenberg Amendment to the Gun Control Act of 1968 makes it unlawful for anyone who is convicted of felony or misdemeanor domestic violence crimes to possess firearms.

An Airman who cannot carry a firearm may be unable to perform all of his or her assigned duties, and therefore, commanders may be forced to recommend administrative discharge.

Civilian offenders living on-base are also held accountable. Security forces provide an initial investigation of domestic violence incidents and notify key agencies. Offenders are subject to prosecution in federal court through the base magistrate court program.

People in abusive relationships, or those who know someone who is, can contact the installation family advocacy office. People needing emergency assistance should contact local or military police immediately, officials said.