Why does Fort Benning generate so many UCMJ cases?

Fort Benning’s intense training environment produces stress, competition, strict discipline and constant evaluation.
Young Soldiers, trainees and cadre operate under close supervision from leadership.
Off-post nightlife and alcohol use in Columbus and Phenix City further increase the risk of misconduct allegations.

What kinds of cases are most common at Fort Benning?

The most frequent include:

• Article 120 / 120b sexual assault and child sexual abuse allegations
• Domestic violence, fighting in the barracks and assault charges
• Drugs (delta-8, THC vapes, mushrooms, cocaine, marijuana)
• Fraternization and inappropriate relationships in training units
• Misconduct by drill sergeants, cadre and instructors
• DUI and off-post criminal cases in Columbus and Alabama
• Article 92 orders violations and Article 107 false statements
• GOMORs and 15-6 investigations leading to separation boards

How does Columbus, Georgia’s civilian legal system affect Fort Benning cases?

Columbus PD, Phenix City PD and Muscogee County prosecutors handle many assaults, DUIs and domestic incidents involving Soldiers.
Civilian pleas or statements are often used against Soldiers in military proceedings.
Dual prosecution is common unless resolved strategically.

What triggers a CID investigation at Fort Benning?

CID investigates:

• Sexual assault allegations
• Domestic violence or child abuse reports
• Sexual misconduct in training environments
• Child pornography / indecent image cases
• Serious assault or violent crime

Once CID starts a case, the Soldier is almost always flagged and restricted.

Should I speak with CID or command if I’m innocent?

Almost always no.
Innocent Soldiers do not talk their way out of CID interviews—they talk themselves into trouble.
CID’s job is to obtain statements that support the allegation, not clear you.
Ask for a lawyer and remain silent.

What is an AR 15-6 investigation?

A 15-6 is an administrative inquiry used heavily at Fort Benning for:

• Alleged leadership failures
• Misconduct by drill sergeants or cadre
• Fraternization between instructors and students
• Training-related incidents or safety issues
• Sexual harassment or indecent conduct

The findings often lead to GOMORs or administrative separation.

Do I get a lawyer for a 15-6 investigation?

You are not automatically assigned one, but you may consult TDS or hire civilian counsel.
Early representation prevents harmful admissions and protects long-term interests.

How serious is an Article 15 at Fort Benning?

Very serious.
Punishments may include:

• Reduction in rank
• Forfeitures
• Extra duty
• Severe impact on promotions, PCS and retention

Many Article 15s become the precursor to elimination proceedings.

Can I turn down an Article 15 at Fort Benning?

Yes.
Most Soldiers can refuse NJP and demand a court-martial.
This is often the right choice when the allegation is false or based on weak evidence.
The decision must be strategic and guided by a qualified defense lawyer.

How do GOMORs work at Fort Benning?

GOMORs are commonly issued for:

• DUIs
• Sexual misconduct allegations
• Domestic incidents
• Inappropriate relationships
• Misconduct by instructors or NCOs

A permanent GOMOR is often career-ending; a strong rebuttal can prevent permanent filing.

Why does Fort Benning initiate so many separation boards?

Large numbers of trainees, high standards for instructors and leadership scrutiny lead Fort Benning commands to eliminate Soldiers quickly.
Boards are initiated for misconduct, sex offenses, alcohol-related incidents, poor performance and training failures.

What types of court-martial cases are common at Fort Benning?

The most frequent include:

• Sexual assault cases involving trainees, cadre or fellow Soldiers
• Domestic violence and strangulation
• Drug distribution or high-volume drug possession
• Child pornography and online enticement
• Leadership misconduct (drill sergeants, instructors, cadre)

How important is the Article 32 preliminary hearing?

Extremely important.
The defense uses it to:

• Cross-examine key witnesses
• Expose contradictions
• Lock in testimony
• Present alternative theories
• Influence command decision-making

A strong Article 32 performance can shift the momentum of the case.

Can I be acquitted and still be separated?

Yes.
Administrative separations do not require proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
A Soldier acquitted at trial can still face a separation board if the command believes the conduct failed to meet Army standards.

Why do Soldiers at Fort Benning hire Gonzalez & Waddington?

Because Fort Benning cases often involve:

• High-profile sexual assault allegations
• Training-environment misconduct
• Cadre and leadership scrutiny
• Complex domestic violence cases
• Digital forensics and online allegations

Our firm brings decades of specialized UCMJ trial experience to high-stakes cases.

What experience do Michael and Alexandra bring to Fort Benning cases?

They have tried some of the hardest military cases across the globe, written books on trial strategy and taught cross-examination to hundreds of lawyers.
Their expertise is frequently used in cases involving trainees, cadre and complex witness dynamics.

Can I keep my TDS lawyer if I hire civilian counsel?

Yes.
Many Fort Benning Soldiers use a combined defense team:
civilian counsel directs strategy and trial work; TDS provides logistical support and on-post coordination.

How do UCMJ cases affect daily life at Fort Benning?

Soldiers may face:

• Restrictions on movement
• No-contact orders
• Loss of weapons access
• Duty reassignments
• Social isolation within units

How do legal issues affect families?

Legal problems often lead to:

• Protective orders from Georgia or Alabama courts
• Custody disputes
• Financial strain
• Relocation issues

Families frequently struggle with prolonged uncertainty.

What mistakes should Fort Benning Soldiers avoid?

The most damaging mistakes include:

• Talking to CID
• Deleting digital evidence
• Contacting the accuser
• Posting on social media about the case
• Violating protective orders or command directives

What should I do immediately if accused?

Stay calm, ask for a lawyer, avoid statements, preserve all evidence and contact a civilian military defense lawyer who understands Fort Benning’s legal environment.