A Private First Class stationed at Schofield Barracks was ensnared in a CID sting operation after connecting with a girl on Bumble. He initially believed she was at least 18, based on Bumble’s age requirement of 18 years. However, as their conversation progressed, she revealed a different age, which he doubted. Despite his skepticism, she sent him photos that appeared much younger, thanks to age regression software used by the CID agent posing behind the profile. Undeterred by the claimed age but continuing the interaction, he eventually agreed to meet, arriving with Jameson whiskey and gummy bears at the specified location, only to be greeted by CID agents instead of the girl. Upon arrival, he was apprehended and taken into custody, where he inadvertently waived his rights and admitted to the allegations. Despite lacking a criminal history, he was charged under Articles 80 and 120 of the UCMJ and faced general court martial charges. Facing a proposed five-year sentence, he retained Hawaii court martial lawyer Tim Bilecki. Opting for trial despite daunting evidence, the defense argued mistake of fact regarding the girl’s age and entrapment. Yet, after rigorous cross-examination of the agent and examination of their tactics, the jury convicted him, resulting in a three-year confinement sentence.
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