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U.S. Air Force Major Criminally Charged After Criticizing President Donald Trump
Just the facts
U.S. Air Force Major Jason Watson, a military officer with 17 years of service, faces criminal charges under military law for making public statements critical of President Donald Trump. Military law enforcement officers detained Watson on two separate occasions prior to filing formal charges. Under Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, commissioned officers are prohibited from using contemptuous words against specified civilian leaders, including the president. The Department of the Air Force initiated formal legal proceedings against Watson while he remains in military custody. Military judicial authorities have not yet announced a schedule for preliminary court-martial proceedings.
Why this is news
U.S. Air Force Major Jason Watson was placed in military custody and criminally charged following public criticism directed at President Donald Trump. Military authorities initiated formal proceedings against the 17-year veteran after he was detained twice for related statements.
Sources
This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.