UCMJ Article 134: Indecent Conduct

The MCM states any service member may be subject to prosecution for a violation of Article 134 – Indecent Conduct if it can be demonstrated that:

1. the accused engaged in certain conduct;

2. the conduct was indecent; and

3. under the circumstances, the conduct of the accused was either: (i) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces; (ii) was of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces, or (iii) to the prejudice of good order and discipline in the armed forces and of a nature to bring discredit upon the armed forces.

Understanding Article 134 (Indecent Conduct) of the UCMJ

Indecent means that form of immorality relating to sexual impurity, which is grossly vulgar, obscene, and repugnant to common decency and tends to excite sexual desire or deprave morals concerning sexual relations.

Indecent conduct includes offenses previously proscribed by “Indecent acts with another,” except that the presence of another person is no longer required. The words “conduct” and “act” are synonymous for this offense. For child offenses, some indecent conduct may be included in the definition of lewd act and preempted by Article 120b(c).

Maximum Possible Punishment for Violations of Article 134

Service members convicted of violating Article 134 for Indecent Conduct face a maximum possible punishment of a dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, and confinement for five years.

How do you defend against Article 134 Indecent Conduct charges?

When facing the combined resources of the military and the current cultural climate, you need to be prepared to defend your career and your freedom. Crisp and Associates, LLC has a team of experienced trial attorneys with over 75 years of combined experience who have won these types of cases. This team includes the firm’s founder, Jonathan Crisp, a highly respected and sought-after attorney, speaker, and lecturer who has served in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) since 1998 and entered private practice in 2007.

If you, or someone you know, is facing Article 134 charges for Indecent Conduct, you need to speak with a Military defense attorney immediately. We understand what is at risk and teach you how to protect your career, freedom, and future. Please call Crisp and Associates Military at 888-258-1653 for a free consultation.