Officer found guilty in court-martial

by Joel Fortner

An officer charged in the death of his infant son was found guilty on the charge of murder during a court-martial here June 15.

After closing arguments, the military judge, Lt. Col. Gary Jackson, deliberated for about 40 minutes and then convicted 2nd Lt. David Valois of murder in violation of Article 118.

Lieutenant Valois elected to be tried before a judge only instead of a jury.

The lieutenant faces a maximum potential sentence of dismissal from the Air Force, confinement in prison for life with or without parole, total forfeitures of all pay and allowances, and a fine.

A decision on sentencing began today.

The general court-martial convening authority, Lt. Gen. John L. Hudson, Aeronautical Systems Center commander, must now approve the verdict and sentence. Once the convening authority takes action, there will be an automatic right for appellate review.

Source: U.S. Air Force

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