Creech Air Force Base Command-Directed Investigation Defense Lawyers

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Creech Air Force Base Command-Directed Investigation Defense Lawyers

A Command-Directed Investigation is an administrative inquiry ordered by command to address alleged misconduct. Though not criminal, it can be career-ending and may escalate to reprimands, separation actions, or court-martial. At Creech Air Force Base, Gonzalez & Waddington provide guidance; call 1-800-921-8607.

Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyers: Gonzalez & Waddington

Watch the criminal defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington break down how they defend criminal cases and service members worldwide against Federal Charges, Florida State Charges, UCMJ allegations, CID/NCIS/OSI investigations, court-martials, Article 120 cases, administrative separations, and GOMORs. If you’re under investigation or facing charges, this video explains what your rights are and how experienced criminal defense lawyers can make the difference.

Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges or a criminal investigation by federal authorities, the military, or the State of Florida, early defense matters. Gonzalez & Waddington provide disciplined, trial-focused criminal defense for high-stakes cases involving serious allegations and complex evidence. To speak with experienced criminal defense lawyers and get confidential guidance, call 1-800-921-8607 or text 954-909-7407 to request a no-cost, confidential consultation.

Can I be separated without a court-martial?

Administrative separation can occur without a court-martial if commanders initiate the process based on alleged misconduct, substandard performance, or other qualifying grounds. It is a distinct administrative action and does not require a criminal conviction. Service members are given notice and an opportunity to respond.

What is the difference between a Board of Inquiry and Nonjudicial Punishment?

A Board of Inquiry is a formal administrative hearing that reviews evidence and determines whether separation is warranted. Nonjudicial Punishment is a disciplinary tool used by commanders to address misconduct without a courtroom process. They serve different purposes and have different procedural safeguards.

What is the burden of proof at a Board of Inquiry?

The burden of proof at a Board of Inquiry is typically a preponderance of the evidence, meaning the board evaluates whether allegations are more likely true than not. This is a lower standard than that used in criminal proceedings. The board applies this standard when reviewing all presented material.

Who sits on the Board of Inquiry?

A Board of Inquiry is usually composed of commissioned officers, with at least one member generally senior in rank to the service member. The composition is intended to ensure impartial evaluation of the evidence. Members are appointed by the appropriate authority at the installation.

What evidence can a Board of Inquiry consider?

The board may review documents, witness statements, service records, and other relevant materials. Both the government and the service member may present evidence for the board’s consideration. The board determines the weight to give each item.

How can a Board of Inquiry affect military retirement?

A Board of Inquiry may make findings that influence whether a service member remains eligible to continue serving until qualifying for retirement. Separation before meeting retirement requirements can impact benefits and entitlements. Outcomes vary depending on the board’s conclusions.

How does a Board of Inquiry determine discharge characterization?

The board evaluates the service member’s overall record, performance history, and the circumstances of the case. Its recommendations may address whether service is characterized as honorable, general, or under other designations. These characterizations can affect future benefits and career opportunities.

Can a civilian lawyer participate in a Board of Inquiry?

Service members may be represented by civilian counsel at their own expense during a Board of Inquiry. Civilian attorneys can attend hearings, present evidence, and assist with the case. Their involvement complements any assigned military counsel.

Q1: Where is Creech Air Force Base located?

Creech Air Force Base sits in southern Nevada, northwest of Las Vegas and near the small community of Indian Springs. Its position in the Mojave Desert provides expansive airspace and isolated terrain. These regional features are central to the base’s operational role and its integration with surrounding civilian areas.

Q2: How does the local environment shape the base’s functions?

The desert climate offers predictable flying conditions ideal for remote aviation operations. Sparse population density reduces airspace conflict and enhances security. Nearby communities support the installation with essential services and workforce connections.

Q3: What military presence defines Creech Air Force Base?

The installation is primarily operated by the U.S. Air Force and is known for its leadership in remotely piloted aircraft missions. Key units manage surveillance, reconnaissance, and support for global operations. The base’s specialized mission profile distinguishes it within the region and the broader Air Force structure.

Q4: What is the general mission focus at Creech?

Creech plays a central role in providing persistent intelligence and operational support to combatant commands. Its units sustain high-tempo remote aviation activities essential to national defense. The base also supports training for aircrew and sensor operators.

Q5: What is the scale of the service member population?

The installation hosts a sizable mix of active-duty personnel, civilians, and contractors. Its workforce supports around-the-clock aviation, intelligence, and command functions. Rotational activity is common due to global mission demands.

Q6: How active is operational tempo at the base?

The base maintains continuous mission operations tied to overseas theaters. Training cycles occur regularly to sustain readiness for remote aviation crews. This tempo shapes daily life for service members and families in the area.

Q7: How does military law intersect with activities at Creech?

Service members may encounter UCMJ matters ranging from investigations to administrative actions linked to operational duties. High-tempo missions and sensitive intelligence work can influence how legal issues arise. The environment requires frequent coordination with command legal offices.

Q8: Who represents service members facing UCMJ issues at Creech?

The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers stationed at or passing through Creech Air Force Base. Their work involves cases connected to the base’s mission demands and operational setting. Representation may occur during command actions, UCMJ proceedings, or related legal matters.

Overview of Creech Air Force Base

Creech Air Force Base is located in southern Nevada, roughly an hour northwest of Las Vegas and just outside the rural community of Indian Springs. Situated along U.S. Highway 95, the installation sits within the Mojave Desert basin, where wide valleys, dry lakebeds, and surrounding mountain ranges create ideal conditions for controlled airspace and remote flight operations. The desert climate—marked by hot summers, mild winters, and expansive visibility—supports year-round aviation and testing activities. Creech maintains close ties with nearby civilian communities, particularly Indian Springs and the greater Clark County area, where many military families live, work, or use local services.

Military Presence and Mission

Creech Air Force Base is a United States Air Force installation best known as a central hub for remotely piloted aircraft operations. It hosts key units responsible for controlling and supporting MQ-9 Reaper missions across multiple combatant commands. Personnel stationed at Creech conduct continuous intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision engagement missions, providing global reach from a domestic platform. The base also plays a vital role in advancing tactics, training, and innovation for remote aviation systems that support joint and coalition forces worldwide.

Service Member Population and Activity

The active duty population at Creech is moderate in size but highly specialized. The installation supports aircrew, sensor operators, intelligence professionals, maintenance teams, and command staff who manage around-the-clock flight operations. While no large-scale basic training occurs here, the base maintains a steady rotation of mission-ready personnel and instructors tied to ongoing overseas commitments. The operational tempo remains high due to continuous global taskings tied to intelligence and strike support missions.

Military Law and UCMJ Relevance

Because Creech operates at a sustained pace with sensitive mission requirements, service members stationed or temporarily assigned here may encounter UCMJ-related issues ranging from investigations and administrative actions to non-judicial punishment, courts-martial, or separation proceedings. The unique pressures of remote aviation operations, security protocols, and extended shift work can influence how military justice matters arise and are addressed. The military defense lawyers at Gonzalez & Waddington represent servicemembers at Creech Air Force Base, providing counsel to those navigating these legal challenges.

https://www.creech.af.mil/

How long does a Command-Directed Investigation usually last?

The length of a CDI varies depending on complexity, number of witnesses, and command urgency. Some are completed quickly, while others may take weeks or months.

Do I have rights during a Command-Directed Investigation?

Service members retain certain rights, including Article 31(b) protections when suspected of an offense. These rights apply even though the investigation is administrative.

Are statements I make during a CDI used later?

Yes, statements made during a CDI are often included in the investigative report and can be used in later administrative or criminal proceedings.

Can a Command-Directed Investigation turn into a court-martial?

Yes, a CDI can escalate into a court-martial if the findings support criminal charges under the UCMJ. Commands may refer the case for prosecution after review.

What standard of proof is used in a Command-Directed Investigation?

The standard of proof is administrative, typically a preponderance of the evidence, meaning more likely than not. This is much lower than the criminal standard.

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