Brass testify on bills aimed at military sexual assaults [View all]

[maddezmom]

Source: USAToday

WASHINGTON -- Members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said Tuesday they oppose proposals that would remove commanders' discretion to overturn decisions to prosecute troops and throw out their convictions, issues that have triggered indignation in light of the sexual assault crisis affecting the military.

Gen. Raymond Odierno, the Army chief of staff, told the Senate Armed Services Committee the service had "failed in our efforts to date to protect" soldiers and civilians from sexual assault and harassment.

Commanders, however, need to keep their authority in handling sexual assault cases, Odierno said. Removing that authority will make commanders less accountable, affect unit discipline and delay punishment, he said.

All of the chiefs said the Senate needs to consider the effect of making changes on commanders' ability to deal with their troops.


Read more: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2013/06/04/brass-testify-on-bill-aimed-at-military-sexual-assault/2387817/