What is the maximum punishment for an Article 134 offense?
In Virginia, Article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice outlines a variety of offenses which can result in punishment for military personnel. Article 134 particularly focuses on “Offenses Not Specifically Named in the Previous Articles” and delineates punishments for offenses which do not fall directly under the rest of the code’s articles. Depending upon the severity of the offense committed, the maximum punishment for a violation of Article 134 may range from “confinement for two months” to “death”. Additionally, a maximum fine of two thousand five hundred dollars can be imposed. Depending on the severity of the offense, the other punishments which can be imposed for an Article 134 offense in Virginia can include reduction of rank, loss of pay, restriction, extra duties, and dishonorable discharge from the military. In serious cases, the military has the right to impose the death penalty. This punishment is reserved for offenders who have committed a crime which is considered to be the most serious offense. To sentence an offender to death, a court-martial has to be convened and the accused has to be found guilty beyond reasonable doubt. A sentence of death can only be imposed by a court-martial composed of a minimum of 12 members and if the sentence is approved, it is subject to the approval of the President.
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