How does the military handle cases involving drug misuse?

The way in which the military handles cases involving drug misuse depends on the severity of the offense. Generally, the military addresses drug misuse through the use of administrative discipline or criminal prosecution. Administrative disciplinary actions could include a reprimand, admonition, or reduction in rank. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a service member may be referred to the Military Treatment Facility to be evaluated for drug and/or alcohol abuse. This evaluation could lead to the issuance of a rehabilitation and treatment plan. If an offense is more severe, such as possession or distribution of an illicit substance, the service member could face criminal prosecution under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). The UCMJ prohibits the use of any controlled substances. Conviction of such an offense could lead to imprisonment in a military correctional facility, a bad-conduct or dishonorable discharge, or a federal offense. In the state of Mississippi, all drug misuse cases are handled by the specific branch of service. The branch’s particular regulations outline how the military will handle drug misuse cases. Generally, these regulations require a certain level of punishment and rehabilitation based on the type of drug misuse and any applicable extenuating circumstances.

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How does the military handle cases involving drug misuse?

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