Bilecki Presents Reporter’s Threats and Officer’s Record; JBLM Investigation Ends Without Charges

Bilecki Presents Reporter’s Threats and Officer’s Record; JBLM Investigation Ends Without Charges

September 2023

Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington

Army First Lieutenant – O-2

Allegations: UCMJ Article 134 Fraternization; UCMJ Article 134 Extramarital Sexual Conduct

Facts

This was a Field Artillery First Lieutenant at JBLM under an active Army investigation for Article 134 fraternization and Article 134 extramarital sexual conduct. The allegation could lead to criminal or administrative action and put his continued service at risk.

The husband of the alleged paramour had begun calling and texting our client. The husband sent audio and photo material as leverage. He told our client he was going to take it to the chain of command if he did not get what he wanted. The chain issued a Rights Warning shortly after.

Our client retained Bilecki the same day the Rights Warning issued.

Tim put the husband’s threats alongside the report he had made to command. The same person making the allegation had first used the audio and photographs to pressure our client. That sequence gave the command a reason to question the report’s motive and reliability. The defense package included three top block OERs across the prior duty stations and character letters from a peer Lieutenant, a Captain, a senior NCO from our client's section, and a retired senior officer from the broader community.

The matter resolved at the investigation level.

No charges were preferred. No GOMOR. No AR 600-8-24 officer elimination. No Show Cause Board. Our client continued in service.

Result: No charges. No GOMOR. No officer elimination. No Show Cause Board. Officer continued in service.

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FAQ

Q: Why did the husband’s messages matter?
The same person reporting the relationship had used audio and photographs to pressure our client before going to the command. Tim presented that sequence so the investigators and command could assess his motive alongside the accusation. It did not automatically make the report false; it was evidence the defense wanted considered before a decision.

Q: What else did the defense submit?
Three top-block OERs and letters from officers, an NCO in the Lieutenant’s section and a retired senior officer. Those records supported the request to let him continue serving. The investigation ended without charges, a GOMOR or officer elimination.