Legal Question in Military Law in California

Punishment for awol Marines.

My sons life long friend recently informed us that he was going to AWOL. This was a total surprise to us and especially my son who has thought of him like an older brother and looks up to him. He just graduated from M.C.R.D on July 1st,2005. He was then sent to Camp Pendleton for about a month, this was the first time he was able to leave,but he did not return on Sunday, as he was ordered to.His mother has been called and spoke to a staff sergant, who informed her that the FBI would come looking for him by this Wednesday. I've been reading and researchin all the AWOL cases that I could find. And from what I can see he has about 30 days to turn himself in and that's the best thing he can do, if they catch him for any reason and take him by force , it's alot worse punishment, is that true? I know both his parents have mental problems, his father was also in U.S.M.C and was discharged for mental issues, and his mother is in mental therapy right now.Please tell me if there's anything we can do to help him, I've raised him for the last ten years as if he were my own son, I love him very much and want to help in any way, my son, his best friend and 3 yrs younger is still going into the Marines himself,he cannot wait,any info is hel


Asked on 8/16/05, 7:41 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Jason Pelt Goodall & Pelt P.C.

Re: Punishment for awol Marines.

They never forget. I've help Marines that have been away from the Marine Corps for over 20 years and according to the Marine Corps, they are still classified as UA. Sooner or later they will catch up to you. The best thing is to be proactive and turn yourself in.

Jason

www.peltlaw.com

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Answered on 9/09/05, 8:29 pm
Anthony DeWitt Bartimus, Frickleton Robertson & Gorny, PC

Re: Punishment for awol Marines.

He should return immediately. This never goes away, and they never forget, and at this point all he is looking at is an Article 15. After he's gone 30 days, it's desertion.

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Answered on 8/17/05, 9:56 am


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