Overview of Article 32 pretrial investigation
What is an Article 32 Pretrial Investigation?
The Article 32 investigation is a formal investigation conducted prior to trial. Article 32, UCMJ reads, “No charge or specification may be referred to a general court-martial for trial until a thorough and impartial investigation of all the matters set forth therein has been made.” A formal investigation conducted before trial. The Article 32 investigation has been labeled the “military equivalent” of a civilian grand jury proceeding. United States v. Bell, 44 M.J. 403, 406 (C.A.A.F. 1996). See also United States v. Powell, 17 M.J. 975, 976 (A.C.M.R. 1984).
References
DA Pam 27-17, Procedural Guide for Article 32(b) Investigating Officer (16 Sep 90); DA Pam 27-173, Trial Procedure, Chapter 16 (31 Sep 92).
Purpose of Article 32
“The Article 32 investigation ‘operates as a discovery proceeding for the accused and stands as a bulwark against baseless charges.’” United States v. Garcia, 59 M.J. 447, 451 (C.A.A.F. 2004) (quoting United States v. Samuels, 27 C.M.R. 280, 286 (C.M.A. 1959)). UCMJ art. 32; RCM 405(a) discussion; RCM 405(e).
- Inquire into the truth of the matter alleged in the charges.
- Consider the form of the charges.
- Make recommendations as to the disposition of the charges.
Discovery in an Article 32
“The investigation also serves as a means of discovery.” RCM 405(a) Discussion. See also Article 32(b), UCMJ; United States v. Garcia, 59 M.J. 447, 451 (C.A.A.F. 2004).
Preservation of Testimony
Article 32 testimony may be admissible as substantive evidence at trial, as a prior inconsistent statement under M.R.E. 801(d)(1), or as prior testimony under M.R.E. 804(b)(1). Use caution: United States v. Austin, 35 M.J. 271 (C.M.A. 1992). The child victim testified in detail at the Article 32 but recanted her testimony at trial and refused to talk about the offense. Over defense objection, the trial court admitted a 15-page transcript of Article 32 testimony as a prior inconsistent statement pursuant to M.R.E. 801(d)(1)(A) and as former testimony under M.R.E. 804(b)(1). The transcript was read to the panel and then given to the panel to take into the deliberation room. Held: reversible error to send transcript back to deliberation room with the panel. The transcript was not an exhibit under RCM 921.
Article 32 transcript admissible as a prior inconsistent statement and substantive evidence on the issue of guilt in case of rape and carnal knowledge of 13-year-old daughter, under M.R.E. 801(d)(1). The Accused’s wife testified at Article 32 that the accused confessed. After Article 32 was terminated, the wife refused to discuss her testimony with Government. Unsure whether the wife would recant her Article 32 testimony at trial, Government called wife as a witness, she recanted, acknowledged inconsistency, and over defense objection, Article 32 transcript was admitted and taken into deliberations.
CAAF held that Article 32 transcript was not admissible under M.R.E. 608(b) (no extrinsic evidence of prior inconsistent statement when witness available and testifies, admits making a prior statement, and acknowledges specific inconsistencies), but Article 32 transcript admissible under M.R.E. 801(d)(1)(A) as substantive evidence and Government can call witnesses to establish a foundation for admission. Error to send transcript into deliberations, but harmless because unlike Austin, the transcript was not the only evidence against accused. Article 32 testimony may be admissible at trial as former testimony under M.R.E. 804(b)(1) when the witness is unavailable. Article 32 testimony may be admissible at trial as residual hearsay for unavailable declarants under M.R.E. 807.
Improper Purpose of an Article 32 Investigation
RCM 405(a) discussion. The purpose is not to perfect a case against the accused. 2. Rather, the purpose is to ascertain and weigh all the evidence in arriving at conclusions and recommendations.
When is an Article 32 Necessary
Not required for trial by special court-martial. Not required for trial by summary court-martial.
Exceptions to Article 32 Requirement
Adequate substitute. RCM 405(b). There has already been an investigation into the subject matter of the charges before the accused is charged. United States v. Diaz, 54 M.J. 880 (N-M. Ct. Crim. App. 2000). After an Article 32, the accused identified a defect in the preferral of the initial charges, which were dismissed, and new charges preferred. The accused requested a new Article 32, contending that the preferral defect meant that no charges had been investigated by the first Article 32. The Navy Court held the first Article 32 was valid and satisfied the requirements of Article 32.
United States v. Burton, No. 36296, 2007 CCA LEXIS 281 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. Jul. 16, 2007) (unpublished). A rape charge was preferred against the accused and the charge was investigated in accordance with UCMJ art. 32. At the investigation, the accused was represented by counsel and had an opportunity to cross-examine the victim. The charge was referred to trial but subsequently withdrawn because the accused committed additional misconduct.
The rape charge was re-preferred (along with several other charges) in an identical fashion except the accused’s unit had changed. The charges were once again sent to an Article 32 investigating officer. The defense counsel noted that the Government intended to rely on the previous Article 32 investigation for the rape charge and objected, demanding further investigation into the rape charge under RCM 405(b) because of new evidence calling the victim’s credibility into question.
The investigating officer did not investigate the rape charge, but simply attached a copy of the previous Article 32 investigation to the report of the investigation for the three new charges. The defense objected that the original rape charge had not been re-investigated and filed a motion to dismiss at trial. The military judge denied the motion to dismiss, finding that the original rape charge was identical to the new rape charge (except for the unit) and that charge had been properly investigated, so no new investigation was required.
The AFCCA held that the military judge abused his discretion in failing to order a new Article 32 investigation into the rape charge. The court found that “[W]hen the government relies on a previously completed Article 32 . . . hearing to support re-referral of dismissed charges, with no new recommendations by an investigating officer, the investigation is covered by Article 32(c) . . . and an accused has the opportunity to demand further investigation.” However, the court held that the error was harmless beyond a reasonable doubt because the convening authority had been given the information concerning her credibility, the SJA had commented on the victim’s credibility in the Article 34 advice, and the defense conducted a detailed cross-examination of the victim at trial.
The accused may waive the investigation. RCM 705(c)(2)(E) and RCM 905(e).
Personal right of the accused. United States v. Garcia, 59 M.J. 447 (C.A.A.F. 2004). Accused must personally waive the right to Article 32 hearing (an attorney cannot waive it for him). The court does not proscribe the method for a waiver.
It can be waived for personal reasons. If waived for personal reasons, withdrawal of the waiver need only be permitted upon a showing of good cause. United States v. Stone, 37 M.J. 558 (A.C.M.R. 1993). See also United States v. Nickerson, 27 M.J. 30 (C.M.A. 1988).
Defense offer to waive is not binding on the Government; investigation may still be held. RCM 405(a) Discussion.
may be waived as a condition of a pretrial agreement. RCM 705(c)(2)(E); United States v. Shaffer, 12 M.J. 425 (C.M.A. 1982). Article 32 is not a jurisdictional requirement. RCM 905(b)(1) Discussion.
Article 32 investigation should be limited to issues raised by the charges and necessary to the proper disposition of the case. RCM 405(a) Discussion. Not limited to examination of the witnesses and evidence mentioned in the accompanying allied papers (or to what the Trial Counsel initially provides the Investigating Officer (IO)).
Article 32(d); RCM 405(e) and Discussion. IO may investigate the subject matter of the uncharged offense(s) without preferral of additional charge(s), provided notice and certain rights are afforded to the accused.
An investigating officer may investigate the subject matter of the uncharged offense without preferral of new/additional charge(s). Similarly, if charges are changed to allege a more serious or essentially different offense, further investigation should be directed with respect to the new or different matter. See, e.g., United States v. Bender, 32 M.J. 1002 (N.M.C.M.R. 1991).
May include inquiry into the legality of searches or the admissibility of a confession. RCM 405(e) (Discussion). But investigating officers are not required to rule on admissibility. The investigating officer should note the issue in the report of the investigation.
BURDEN OF PROOF. RCM 405(j)(2)(H).
IO determines whether “reasonable grounds” exist to believe the accused committed the offense. “Reasonable grounds” is best translated as “probable cause.” “Probable cause” means “more than a bare suspicion but less than evidence that would justify a conviction” BLACK’S LAW DICTIONARY 1321 (9th ed. 2009).
Article 32 Recommendation is Non-binding
IO’s recommendations are only advisory. RCM 405(a) Discussion.
Participants
Any court-martial convening authority (including summary court-martial convening authority) may direct an Article 32 investigation. Usually, the special court-martial convening authority (SPCMCA) will order the investigation. Appointing Authority should be neutral and detached, within reason.
Accuser means a person who signs and swears to charges, any person who directs that charges nominally be signed and sworn to by another, and any other person who has an interest other than an official interest in the prosecution of the accused. See UCMJ art. 1(9); RCM 601(c) discussion.
Statutory Disqualification.
A convening authority is statutorily disqualified if he or she prefers charges or directs another to prefer charges (the first two types of accuser in UCMJ art. 1(9)). See, e.g., McKinney v. Jarvis, 46 M.J. 870 (A. Ct. Crim. App. 1997) (convening authority who becomes an accuser by virtue of preferring charges in an official capacity as a commander is not, per se, disqualified from appointing a pretrial IO to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of those charges).
Personal Disqualification.
A convening authority is personally disqualified if he or she has an other-than-official interest in the case (a “Type 3” accuser in Article 1(9), UCMJ). United States v. Nix, 40 M.J. 6 (C.M.A. 1994). The accuser concept also applies to those who forward the charges. Special court-martial convening authority’s (SPCMCA’s) girlfriend (later spouse) was acquainted with the accused. The record did not establish that SPCMCA acted without improper motives. SPCMCA must disclose any potential personal interests, and if disqualified, forward without recommendation.
United States v. v. Dinges, 55 M.J. 308 (C.A.A.F. 2001). A convening authority who becomes an accuser by virtue of having such a close connection to the offense that a reasonable person would conclude he had a personal interest in the case is disqualified from taking further action as convening authority. At a GCM the accused was convicted of sodomy arising out of his activities as an assistant scoutmaster with a local troop of the Boy Scouts. The Scout Executive terminated his status as an assistant and contacted the CA (who was a district chairman of the Big Teepee District, Boy Scouts of America) about the matter. Prior to the preferral of charges, the accused was assigned to the CA’s wing (a special court-martial convening authority level command). The CAAF ordered a DuBay hearing to determine whether the convening authority had another than the official interest that would disqualify him under UCMJ art. 1(9) and the United States v. Nix, 40 M.J. 6 (C.M.A. 1994). Based on facts gathered at the DuBay hearing, the CAAF held the SPCMCA did not become an accuser because he did not have such a close connection to the offense that a reasonable person would conclude he had a personal interest in the case. As such, he was not disqualified from taking action as a CA.
The fact that appointing authority has determined to send the accused’s case to a general court-martial does not show he is biased. United States v. Wojciechowski, 19 M.J. 577 (N.M.C.M.R. 1984) (appointing authority was not personally disqualified after telling a NCIS agent and the defense counsel, prior to completion of the Article 32, that he was “going to send (appellant) to a general court-martial”).
Article 32 Investigating Officer
RCM 405(d)(1) must be a commissioned officer. In the Army, the IO cannot be a commissioned
warrant officer. AR 27-10, para. 7-7d. Preference for field grade officers or officers with legal training (judge advocates). RCM 405(d)(1) Discussion. Controls the proceedings. It was not an error for the IO to limit redundant, repetitive, or irrelevant questions by the defense counsel. United States v. Lewis, 33 M.J. 758 (A.C.M.R. 1991). Disqualified from serving later in the same case in any capacity. RCM 405(d)(1). must be impartial. They may not be the accuser in the case.
IO must be impartial, but not disqualified merely because of Prior knowledge about the case. United States v. Schreiber, 16 C.M.R. 639 (A.F.B.R. 1954). Investigated a related case. United States v. Collins, 6 M.J. 256 (C.M.A. 1979).
The IO is partial and is disqualified if the IO:
Played a prior role in perfecting the case against the accused. United States v. Lopez, 42 C.M.R. 268 (C.M.A. 1970); United States v. Parker, 19 C.M.R. 201 (C.M.A. 1955). Previously formed or expressed an opinion about the accused’s guilt. United States v. Natallelo, 10 M.J. 594 (A.F.C.M.R. 1980). Served as DSJA in the SJA office. United States v. Davis, 20 M.J. 61 (C.M.A. 1985). Anytime his/her impartiality might reasonably be questioned. An IO is bound by the ethical standards applicable to judges, i.e. Code of Judicial Conduct and the ABA Standards for Criminal Justice. ABA Standards for Criminal Justice, Special Functions of the Trial Judge, Standard 6-1.6 (3d ed. 2000). United States v. Castleman, 11 M.J. 562 (A.F.C.M.R. 1981) (IO was a close personal friend of accuser, purchased the airplane and vacationed with accuser two days before Article 32); United States v. Davis, 20 M.J. 61 (C.M.A. 1985) (IO was XO of NLSO and was defense counsel’s supervisor.) See also United States v. Willis, 43 M.J. 889 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. 1996) (IO is not biased, even though misapplied 100-mile rule as a reason for not interviewing witnesses and considered sworn statements of unavailable witnesses and videotaped confession.)
Advice
With regard to substantive matters, any advice received must be from a neutral source. United States v. Payne, 3 M.J. 354 (C.M.A. 1977). Persons performing prosecutorial functions are not neutral. United States v. Grimm, 6 M.J. 890 (A.C.M.R. 1979). Advice must not be given ex parte. United States v. Payne, 3 M.J 354 (C.M.A. 1977). ABA Standards, Special Functions of the Trial Judge 6-2.1 (1982). After receiving the advice notice must be given of the person consulted, the substance of the advice, and the parties must be afforded a reasonable opportunity to respond. Canon 3(A)(4), Code of Judicial Conduct (1972).
7. Ex parte communication. Ex parte contacts by the IO regarding substantive matters constitute errors that will be tested for prejudice. Ex parte contacts have a presumption of prejudice that may be rebutted by the trial counsel, but actual prejudice to the accused is very unlikely to be found. See United States v. Payne, 3 M.J. 354 (C.M.A. 1977) (seven meetings with trial counsel); United States v. Whitt, 21 M.J. 658 (A.C.M.R. 1985) (two “informal” ex parte interviews with three witnesses); United States v. Francis, 25 M.J. 614 (C.G.C.M.R. 1987) (meeting with CO, trial counsel, and accuser); and United States v. Rushatz, 30 M.J. 532 (A.C.M.R), aff’d, 31 M.J. 450 (C.M.A. 1990) (contacting CID, visiting housing & finance offices, talking with a potential witness),
a) United States v. Argo, 46 M.J. 454 (C.A.A.F. 1997). Staff Judge Advocate’s request to Article 32(b) IO (a subordinate officer not under his supervision) to reopen investigation to look into the issue of unlawful command influence, and reject the defense’s interpretation of precedent regarding “no-contact” order did not constitute unlawful command influence. Accused suffered no prejudice by a full investigation of the unlawful command influence issues. Although SJA’s ex parte contact violated the law, there was no prejudicial impact because the IO consulted her own SJA for legal advice and exercised independent judgment; and the defense did not enter an objection at any stage of the court-martial process.
b) United States v. Holt, 52 M.J. 173 (C.A.A.F. 1999). IO’s furnishing trial counsel with name and phone number of blood spatter expert who later provided helpful blood test and blood spatter testimony at trial created at least the appearance of impropriety by providing trial counsel with what was, in effect, a supplementary report that was neither transmitted to the commander who ordered the investigation nor served on the accused. Such communication did not prejudice the accused, although the CAAF held that, in the future, such supplementary communications must be reported promptly to the command and to the accused. If such a matter arises after referral, the information shall be provided promptly to the commander who referred the case to trial, the military judge, and the accused. The parties will be in the best position to determine whether any motions or objections are warranted based upon the nature of the information.
8. Delay Authority. United States v. Lazauskas, 62 M.J. 39 (C.A.A.F. 2005). CAAF interprets RCM 707(c) to exclude, for 120-day calculation purposes, any delay approved by the ART 32 IO if the convening authority previously delegated authority to the IO to approve delays.
The accused has the following rights:
- to be informed of the charges under investigation.
- to be informed of the identity of the accuser.
- to be present throughout the taking of evidence unless the accused: Is disruptive or is voluntarily absent (technically, cannot force accused to be present).
- to be represented by counsel.
- to be informed of the witnesses and other evidence then known to the IO.
- to be informed of the purpose of the investigation.
to be informed of the right against self-incrimination under Article 31. - To cross-examine witnesses.
Accused given broad latitude to cross-examine. RCM 405(h)(1)(A). - This right is not absolute. United States v. Lewis, 33 M.J. 758 (A.C.M.R. 1991). The IO believed the defense counsel’s questions were “going off into the ozone.”
- To have witnesses produced if they are reasonably available.
- To have evidence produced that is within the control of military authorities, if reasonably available.
- To present evidence in defense, mitigation, and extenuation.
- To make a statement in any form, including an Unsworn statement.
Defense Counsel RCM 405(d)(2)
Will be detailed. Accused may also request individual military counsel (IMC), who will be provided if reasonably available. Accused may be represented by civilian counsel at no expense to the Government. Accused entitled to a reasonable time to acquire civilian counsel. The investigation will not be unduly delayed to acquire civilian counsel. United States v. Pruner, 33 M.J. 272 (C.M.A. 1991). use of civilian counsel does not limit the accused’s rights to military counsel. Multiple representations of accused and three co-defendants at joint Article 32 did not demonstrate conflicts of interest. United States v. Muma, 5 M.J. 675 (A.C.M.R. 1978).
Trial Counsel. RCM 405(d)(3)(A)
Appointed or requested by the Appointing Authority to represent the Government.
Need not be an attorney. May question witnesses at the hearing. DA PAM 27-17, Procedural Guide for Article 32(b) Investigating Officer, para. 1-2d (16 Sep. 1990). Examine evidence considered by the IO. RCM 405(h)(1)(B).
Argue for an appropriate disposition of the case. DA Pam 27-17, para 1-2d.
Reporter RCM 405(d)(3)(B)
Can be appointed by convening authority. Assists the investigating officer in recording the proceeding.
Witnesses and Evidence RCM 405(g)
Any witness whose testimony would be relevant to the investigation and not cumulative shall be produced if the witness is “reasonably available.” This includes witnesses for the accused upon a timely request.
Reasonable Availability RCM 405(g)(1)(A)
Availability within 100 miles of situs. “A witness is reasonably available when the witness is located within 100 miles of the situs of the investigation and the significance of the testimony and personal appearance of the witness outweighs the difficulty, expense, delay, and effect on military operations of obtaining the witness’ appearance.” The IO makes the determination of whether a witness is reasonably available. *Note, despite the “100-mile” language in RCM 405(g)(1)(A), the witness’ immediate commander may veto an Article 32 IO’s determination per RCM 405(g)(2)(A).
Interpretation of 100-Mile Test. United States v. Marrie, 43 M.J. 35 (C.A.A.F. 1995). A witness located more than 100 miles away from the situs of an Article 32 investigation is not per se unavailable. IO’s determination that three child sexual abuse victims were not reasonably available based on the 100-mile rule was an error (although harmless) in light of IO’s failure to apply the balancing test and obtain testimony through an alternative form (e.g., telephone, written sworn statement). The determination of reasonable availability for witnesses located more than 100 miles from the situs of the investigation is left to the discretion of the commander. The court effectively dissolved Change 5 to the MCM (established 100-Mile test). See Discussion, RCM 405(g)(1)(A) and RCM 405(g)(2)(A).
United States v. Burfitt, 43 M.J. 815 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. 1996). Not every ruling of unavailability premised on the wooden application of the 100-mile rule is fatal. IO’s error in applying the 100-mile rule must cause some prejudice to the accused. It was a harmless error for the IO to apply a 100-mile test without determining if the importance of testimony outweighed the difficulty, delay, and expense of securing the physical presence of witness because IO obtained evidence via telephone, permitted defense counsel to conduct cross-examination, and MJ allowed accused further opportunity to interview witnesses. The record should support IO’s determination of availability when the victim does not appear for Article 32 investigation. IO’s determination must be carefully considered, clearly articulated, and amply supported in the record.
United States v. Willis, 43 M.J. 889 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. 1996). IO’s misapplication of the 100-mile rule, amongst other things, did not substantiate claims of IO bias.
Determining the availability of witnesses.
Military witnesses
- IO makes an initial determination whether a witness is reasonably available
- The immediate commander of the witness has the discretion and may exercise a “veto” and determine that the witness is not reasonably available
- Unavailability determination is not subject to appeal but can be reviewed at trial.
Civilian witnesses
- IO makes an initial determination
- The final decision is at the commander’s discretion who ordered the investigation.
- Payment of transportation and per diem to civilian witnesses must be approved by the GCMCA. AR 27-10, para. 5-12
- Cannot be subpoenaed to appear at an Article 32 hearing
- can be compelled by subpoena to testify at a deposition. RCM 702
- can be ordered to testify as an incident of employment if employed by the United States government and the Article 32 investigation concerns matters related to the civilian’s job. Weston v. Dep’t. of Housing & Urban Develop., 724 F.2d 943 (Fed. Cir. 1983).
Local status of forces agreements (SOFA) may provide a mechanism for compelling the attendance of foreign nationals.
Immunized witnesses. Only a General Court-Martial Convening Authority (GCMCA) has the authority to grant immunity to witnesses to testify at an Article 32 investigation (or Court-Martial). RCM 704(c) and Discussion. United States v. Douglas, 32 M.J. 694 (A.F.C.M.R. 1991) (no abuse of discretion in denying defense requested immunity for two witnesses at Article 32).
AVAILABLE WITNESSES
must be compelled to testify if available and does not claim any privilege. United States v. Colter, 15 M.J. 1032 (A.C.M.R. 1983). The witness was a Government drug informant. United States v. Bell, 44 M.J. 403 (1996). Appellant was not protected from prosecution for perjury by the absence of Article 31 warnings at Article 32 investigation where he made statements during testimony as a defense witness. Article 32 investigations are judicial proceedings, not a disciplinary or law enforcement tool within the context of Article 31. The Article 31 requirement for warnings does not apply at trial.
UNAVAILABLE WITNESSES AND EVIDENCE
IO must state in the report of investigation the reason(s) for an unavailability
determination if the defense objects. Witnesses who invoke their right to self-incrimination at the Article 32 are “not reasonably available” within the meaning of RCM 405(g)(1)(a); United States v. Douglas, 32 M.J. 694 (A.F.C.M.R. 1991). See also RCM 405(g)(1)(A) and MRE 804(a)(1).
Alternatives to Testimony and Evidence RCM 405(g)(4) and (5)
The following are admissible if there is no defense objection, regardless of the availability of the witness.
- Sworn statements.
- Statements under oath taken by telephone, radio, etc.
- Prior testimony under oath.
- Depositions. RCM 702.
- Stipulations of fact or expected testimony.
- Unsworn statements.
The following are admissible even if there is a defense objection if the witness is not reasonably available.
- Sworn statements.
- Statements under oath taken by telephone, radio, etc.
- Prior testimony under oath.
- Depositions; and, in time of war, Unsworn statements.
Alternatives to Evidence
- If no defense objection, regardless of the availability of the evidence.
- Testimony describing the evidence.
- An authenticated copy, photograph, or reproduction.
- Stipulation of fact document’s contents, or expected testimony.
- An unsworn statement describing the evidence.
- Offer of proof concerning pertinent characteristics of the evidence.
Over defense objection, if evidence not reasonably available. - Testimony describing the evidence.
- Authenticated copy, photograph, or reproduction.
Article 32 Procedure
CA is authorized to prescribe specific procedures for conducting the investigation. RCM 405(c). See United States v. Bramel, 32 M.J. 3 (C.M.A. 1990) (appointing authority’s instructions to IO to partition the child witness and the accused okay). Normally, DA Pam 27-17 (Sep 90) will be followed. The CA will usually require expeditious proceedings and set the deadline for receipt of the record of the investigation. Per RCM 707(c) and Discussion, have appointing authority delegate limited authority to approve delay to Article 32 IO. See United States v. Thompson, 46 M.J. 472 (1997), affirming 44 M.J. 598 (N-M. Ct. Crim. App. 1996).
The defense requested delays that were granted by the Article 32 investigating officer and later ratified by the convening authority after the fact were properly excluded from the speedy trial calculations under RCM 707. The court leaves for another day the issue of whether the Article 32 Investigating Officer (IO) has inherent, independent power to exclude a delay from speedy trial consideration.
The report of the investigation should be forwarded to GCMCA within eight days if the accused is in pretrial confinement. RCM 405(j)(1) discussion.
The investigating officer has broad discretion regarding the sequence of events and other details. IO decides –
- Time and place of the hearing.
- Order witnesses will testify.
- Order in which evidence will be presented.
- Order of examination by counsel.
- A number of sessions needed to complete the investigation.
Rules of Evidence RCM 405(i)
Military Rules of Evidence do not apply other than M.R.E. 301 (self-incrimination), 302 (statements from mental examination), 303 (degrading), 305 (rights warning), 412 (rape shield), and Section V (privileges). See United States v. Martel, 19 M.J. 917 (A.C.M.R. 1985) (error for Article 32 Officer to consider evidence which violated marital privilege).
Right to Confrontation
Article 32 investigation, while an important pretrial right, is not the equivalent of a crucial trial right for Confrontation Clause purposes. See United States v. Bramel, 32 M.J. 3 (C.M.A. 1990). It is not improper for the accused to be separated from a child witness by a screen at Article 32. Consider admissibility at trial of testimony obtained in this manner if the witness is later unavailable in light of Crawford v. Washington, 541 U.S. 36 (2004).
OPEN vs. CLOSED HEARING
RCM 405(h)(3). The proceedings may be closed or access restricted at the discretion of the appointing authority or the investigating officer. Ordinarily, though, the proceedings should be open. The analysis to RCM 405(h)(3) refers to RCM 806 (governing closure of the trial) for some reasons why the hearing may be closed.
See ABC, Inc, v. Powell, 47 M.J. 363 (C.A.A.F. 1997). SPCMA’s reasons (maintain the integrity of the military justice system, prevent dissemination of evidence that might not be admissible at trial, and shield alleged victims from possible news reports about anticipated attempts to delve into each woman’s sexual history) supporting decision to close the entire investigation were unsubstantiated. The CAAF holds that the accused has a qualified right to an open Article 32 hearing.
Closure determination must be a “‘reasoned,’ not ‘reflexive’” one, made on a “case-by-case, witness-by-witness, and circumstance-by-circumstance basis whether closure in a case is necessary to protect the welfare of a victim. . . .” Absent cause shown that outweighs the value of openness (overriding interest articulated in the findings), the military accused is entitled to a public Article 32 hearing. The right is not absolute. The press enjoys the same right to a public Article 32 and has the standing to complain if access is denied.
United States v. Davis, 62 MJ. 645 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. 2006), aff’d, 64 M.J. 445 (C.A.A.F. 2007). The IO closed the Article 32 hearing during the testimony of two victims of alleged sexual assault “due to the sensitive and potentially embarrassing nature of the testimony and in order to encourage complete testimony about the alleged sexual offenses.” The IO failed to speak to either witness and no evidence existed that the witnesses were reluctant to testify in a public hearing. The MJ held that the IO’s decision was not supported by the evidence and was an error, but the MJ declined to fashion any relief because he could determine no “articulable harm” to the accused.
A court-martial may be closed to the public provided the following test is met:
- The party seeking closure must advance an overriding interest that is likely to be prejudiced;
- The closure must be narrowly tailored to protect that interest;
- The trial court must consider reasonable alternatives to closure;
- And it must make adequate findings supporting the closure to aid in review.
- There is no “national security” exception to these principles.
- The appointing authority must still conduct a case-by-case, witness-by-witness, circumstance-by-circumstance determination.
TESTIMONY BY WITNESSES. RCM 405(h)(1)(A).
All testimony must be under oath.
Except accused may make an Unsworn statement.
ACTION BY THE APPOINTING AUTHORITY
- Dismiss the Charges.
- Administrative Disposition.
- Nonjudicial Punishment.
- Referral to SCM or SPCM.
- Forwarding with recommendations to GCMCA.
- REOPEN THE INVESTIGATION.
TREATMENT OF DEFECTS
During the post-trial appeal, relief for a defective may only be granted where an accused can show a timely objection and violation of his substantial rights. See Article 59(a), UCMJ (“A finding or sentence of court-martial may not be held incorrect on the ground of an error of law unless the error materially prejudices the substantial rights of the accused.”).
It may be very difficult to show prejudice. See United States v. Von Bergen, 67 M.J. 290 (C.A.A.F. 2009) (“Article 32, UCMJ, errors are tested on direct review for prejudice as defined by Article 59(a)”) (citing United States v. Davis, 64 M.J. 445, 449 (C.A.A.F. 2007)). Von Bergen noted military courts have a long history of deciding that the Article 32 proceedings are “superseded” by the trial procedures, so the accused’s rights at an Article 32 “merge into his rights at trial” (citing United States v. Mickel, 26 C.M.R. 104, 107 (C.M.A. 1958)). Because these rights merge, the court held the accused suffered no prejudice, even though he was erroneously denied his right to an Article 32 hearing.
OBJECTIONS must be TIMELY MADE
Defects were discovered during the investigation. RCM 405(h)(2). must be raised promptly. Allows Government to take curative action. Errors not promptly raised are waived absent a showing of good cause. RCM 405(k).
IO is not required to rule on the objection. The objection must be noted in the report of the investigation if requested. IO may require the objection to be in writing. Defects in the report of investigation. RCM 405(j)(4). Objections must be made to the appointing authority. must be made within five days of receipt of the report by the accused. Failure to raise the objection within 5 days is a waiver absent good cause. RCM 405(k). If an error is alleged erroneous denial of witness, the defense may be required to request deposition in order to preserve objection. United States v. Chuculate, 5 M.J. 143 (C.M.A. 1978).
MOTION FOR appropriate RELIEF must be MADE AT TRIAL. RCM 905(b)(1)
must be made before a plea is entered. Failure to raise before plea waives the error, absent good cause. RCM 405(k), RCM 905(b), and Discussion.
REMEDY
Ordinarily, the remedy is a continuance to re-open the investigation. RCM 906(b)(3)
discussion. If the charges have already been referred, re-referral is not required following a re-opening of the investigation; affirmance of the prior referral is sufficient. United States v. Clark, 11 M.J. 179 (C.M.A. 1981).
PREPARATION OF THE PRETRIAL ADVICE
SJA need not personally prepare the advice, but: The SJA is personally responsible for it. Disqualification of the SJA to Prepare Post-trial Recommendation. Mere preparation of the pretrial advice is not enough to disqualify the SJA. However, under RCM 1106(b), the SJA may be disqualified from preparing the post-trial recommendation when the sufficiency or correctness of the earlier action (the pretrial advice) is placed in issue.
United States v. Lynch, 39 M.J. 223 (C.M.A. 1994). Accused questioned the pretrial advice in a motion prior to trial. “[W]here a legitimate factual controversy exists between the SJA and DC, the SJA must disqualify himself from participating in the post-trial recommendation.”
United States v. Engle, 1 M.J. 387 (C.M.A. 1976). At trial, DC moved for new advice on the ground that the advice in question contained a material misstatement of the evidence and omitted matters that could have affected the convening authority’s referral decision. SJA should have recused himself.
ENCLOSURES TO PRETRIAL ADVICE.
Charge sheet. Forwarding letters and endorsements. Report of (Article 32) investigation, DD Form 457.
Objections must be Timely Made
- Defects were discovered during the investigation. RCM 405(h)(2).
- must be raised promptly. Allows Government to take curative action.
- Errors not promptly raised are waived absent a showing of good cause. RCM 405(k).
- IO is not required to rule on the objection.
- The objection must be noted in the report of the investigation if requested.
- IO may require the objection to be in writing.
- Defects in the report of investigation. RCM 405(j)(4).
- Objections must be made to the appointing authority.
- must be made within five days of receipt of the report by the accused.
- Failure to raise the objection within 5 days is a waiver absent good cause. RCM 405(k).
- NOTE: Appointing authority not precluded from referring the charges or taking other action within the five days.
- If an error is alleged erroneous denial of witness, the defense may be required to request deposition in order to preserve objection. United States v. Chuculate, 5 M.J. 143 (C.M.A. 1978).
Detailed overview of Article 32 Summary
| Major point | Summary |
|---|---|
| PRESERVATION AND ADMISSION OF 32 TESTIMONY | Article 32 testimony may be admissible as substantive evidence at courts-martial (once the foundational elements for each provision are satisfied): |
| PARTICIPANTS | The appointing authority (AA) must be neutral and detached. An AA who is merely a statutory “accuser” has more options than an AA with another than an official interest in the case. See United States v. Wojciechowski, 19 M.J. 577 (N.M.C.M.R. 1984); McKinney v. Jarvis, 46 M.J. 870 (A. Ct. Crim. App. 1997); see also United States v. Dinges, 49 M.J. 232 (1998). The investigating officer must be “neutral and detached,” and must avoid ex parte contact. The IO is bound by the ethical standards applicable to judges. IO actions that violate the above, upon appropriate motion, must be tested for prejudice to the accused. |
| PRODUCTION OF WITNESSES | RCM 405(g)(1)(A)controls whether the Gov’t must secure the physical presence of witnesses. A witness is reasonably available if within 100 miles of the situs of the investigation and the significance of the testimony and personal appearance outweighs the difficulty, expense, delay, and effect on military operations of obtaining the witnesses’ appearance. Relief from an IO’s misapplication of the balancing test is granted only upon a showing of undue prejudice to the accused. Alternative means of obtaining the testimony (i.e. telephonic direct and cross-examination) may negate prejudice. United States v. Marrie, 43 M.J. 35 (1995); United States v. Burfitt, 43 M.J. 815 (A.F. Ct. Crim. App. 1996). |
| PROCEDURE FOR CONDUCTING THE INVESTIGATION | Speedy Trial Considerations: RCM 707 appears to vest authority to exclude article 32 delays from the speedy trial clock only in the AA. An IO does not have inherent authority to do the same, but it appears that the AA can delegate this authority to an IO. United States v. Thompson, 46 M.J. 472 (1997).
M.R.E. application: Only the rules on privileges, Rape Shield, and self-incrimination apply at the Article 32 investigation. RCM 405(i). The standard for Closure: Whether there is a cause that outweighs the value of openness. The cause must be an overriding interest articulated in the findings. This determination must be made on a case-by-case, witness-by-witness basis. See generally ABC, Inc. v. Powell, 47 M.J. 363 (C.A.A.F. 1997); RCM 405(h)(3). |
| Treatment of Defects and Remedy |
|