Hey all, I’m wondering what my rights are as a civilian if Army CID reaches out to me for an interview. I had submitted an unrestricted report about a soldier through the family advocacy center on base, and now CID wants to talk. IDK what to expect or if I even need to comply. Can they bring charges against me or refer something to the state? Any advice?
As a civilian, you don’t have to talk to CID. But if you refuse, they can’t bring charges against you either.
Chen said:
As a civilian, you don’t have to talk to CID. But if you refuse, they can’t bring charges against you either.
Wait, so they can’t charge me at all? That’s kind of a relief.
Chen said:
As a civilian, you don’t have to talk to CID. But if you refuse, they can’t bring charges against you either.
Yeah, the Army doesn’t have jurisdiction over civilians. But they can refer stuff to the state if it’s serious.
Chen said:
As a civilian, you don’t have to talk to CID. But if you refuse, they can’t bring charges against you either.
Ohh okay, that makes sense now. Thanks for clearing that up.
Out of curiosity, what’s CID? Sorry, I’m not familiar with military terms.
Koa said:
Out of curiosity, what’s CID? Sorry, I’m not familiar with military terms.
CID is the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division. Basically their version of detectives.
Koa said:
Out of curiosity, what’s CID? Sorry, I’m not familiar with military terms.
Got it, thanks! Makes sense now. I didn’t know they dealt with civilians too.
If there was a crime involved, they can definitely report it to the state. Severity doesn’t really matter here.
Whit said:
If there was a crime involved, they can definitely report it to the state. Severity doesn’t really matter here.
Ugh, so any crime could get referred? That’s a bit nerve-wracking.
Whit said:
If there was a crime involved, they can definitely report it to the state. Severity doesn’t really matter here.
Yeah, unfortunately. But if you’re a victim, it might work in your favor during the process.
FYI, if you talk to them, just keep it straightforward and don’t share unnecessary details. You can also get a lawyer for advice.
JuristJourney said:
FYI, if you talk to them, just keep it straightforward and don’t share unnecessary details. You can also get a lawyer for advice.
Thanks, I was wondering about representation. Can I find a military lawyer as a civilian?
JuristJourney said:
FYI, if you talk to them, just keep it straightforward and don’t share unnecessary details. You can also get a lawyer for advice.
Not through the military itself, but websites like Avvo can help you find someone familiar with military law.
JuristJourney said:
FYI, if you talk to them, just keep it straightforward and don’t share unnecessary details. You can also get a lawyer for advice.
Oh, good to know. I’ll check that out if needed.
Are these interviews usually in person or online? Just curious.
Avery said:
Are these interviews usually in person or online? Just curious.
They can be either, but in-person is more common, especially if it’s a formal investigation.
Avery said:
Are these interviews usually in person or online? Just curious.
Makes sense. Hope everything works out for you, OP!