Hey everyone, just a random question here. If you’re sworn into the DEP (Delayed Entry Program) for the Marine Corps, can you actually get arrested for ignoring your recruiter? Like, what if you change your mind or just don’t respond to their calls anymore? I’ve heard mixed things, so I was curious if anyone knows how this works.
Nah, you won’t get arrested. You’re still a civilian when you’re in the DEP, so you’re not under military law yet.
Ellis said:
Nah, you won’t get arrested. You’re still a civilian when you’re in the DEP, so you’re not under military law yet.
Oh, that makes sense. But doesn’t the DEP count towards your service time? I got something saying it’s part of the MSO.
@River
Yeah, it does count towards your Military Service Obligation, but that doesn’t mean you’re locked in. You can still back out if you want.
Recruiters might pressure you, but legally, they can’t do anything if you don’t follow through. Just let them know if you’re backing out.
Kit said:
Recruiters might pressure you, but legally, they can’t do anything if you don’t follow through. Just let them know if you’re backing out.
So they just handle it on their end? No legal trouble at all?
@River
Exactly. Worst case, they might make you feel guilty about it, but there’s no law saying you have to ship out.
If you’re sworn in, you might still have to show up at MEPS by the date they gave you, right?
Ray said:
If you’re sworn in, you might still have to show up at MEPS by the date they gave you, right?
Yeah, that’s what I thought. My paper says I’m supposed to report back to MEPS to enlist in active duty.
@River
Reporting back is more like a formality unless you’re actually planning to go to boot camp. You can just let them know if you’re not continuing.
I’ve heard recruiters can be persistent. They might keep calling to try and convince you to stay in.
Merrick said:
I’ve heard recruiters can be persistent. They might keep calling to try and convince you to stay in.
Lol, yeah, I’ve heard they don’t give up easily. Guess it’s their job to keep you committed.
@River
True. Just be firm if you’re sure about not going. They can’t force you into anything.
I was in the DEP before and decided not to go. Just told my recruiter, and it wasn’t a big deal.
Finch said:
I was in the DEP before and decided not to go. Just told my recruiter, and it wasn’t a big deal.
Good to know. Did they hassle you much about it?
Finch said:
I was in the DEP before and decided not to go. Just told my recruiter, and it wasn’t a big deal.
Good to know. Did they hassle you much about it?
A little, but I just kept saying I wasn’t ready. They eventually stopped calling.