Fairchild Area Defense Counsel reminds members of off-base DUI consequences Published Oct. 3, 2013 By Staff Sgt. Sydney Terry Area Defense Council Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. -- In Washington state, the legal limit for driving under the influence is .08. When a driving under the influence occurs outside of a military installation, understanding the outcome and future impact on careers is critical. For DUI cases occurring outside of the base, the Spokane Police Department maintains initial jurisdiction and can choose to take legal action or turn it over to Fairchild Air Force Base officials. If the military receives jurisdiction, members could be subject to non-judicial punishment or even courts-martial. If the commander decides to proceed with an Article 15, members have the right to consult with the Area Defense Counsel to help in understanding the process and their rights. The Article 15 process is usually a few weeks long, but the repercussions can have a lasting impact on careers. The punishment for being charged with a DUI can include reduction in rank, loss of pay, extra duty, restriction to base and correctional custody. In 2012, 10 members of Fairchild AFB received Article 15's for DUI's. In every case, the member lost a stripe and had additional punishments imposed. If the military does not receive jurisdiction, a member may be charged by the local prosecutor. In Washington state, if convicted of DUI, members can face up to one year in jail, $5,000 in fines, mandatory license revocation as well as other actions depending on the severity of the offense. The commander may still pursue administrative actions, like letters of reprimand, control rosters and administrative demotion for first time offenders. The penalty can be more severe for multiple offenders. Regardless of who receives jurisdiction, the member's license can still be suspended, by both the Air Force base and Washington state. Responsible drinking extends to more than just having a ride home. Violations of the Article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice also include being drunk and disorderly and being drunk on duty. Members found to have committed these types of violations are subject to the same types of military discipline as those found to have committed DUI's. The Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment program has resources to help educate and treat members with issues concerning alcohol abuse. ADAPT offers outpatient treatment as well as after care services. ADAPT can also refer members to the community for local Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous meetings and to the Veterans Affairs when necessary. "If members are diagnosed with conditions that are outside of our scope they can be referred to either the Veterans Affairs or North Idaho Behavioral Health Chemical Dependency program," said Capt Paula Clark, ADAPT clinic officer in charge. Alcohol abuse is a serious matter. The consequences could drastically impact careers and potentially lead to separation. Have a plan and be responsible. The local Airmen Against Drunk Driving number is (509) 389-2194.