Air Force Detains Major Jason Watson in Pretrial Confinement After CNN Criticism of Trump, 1 Month After Capitol Arrest
Updated
Updated · CNN · Aug 19
Air Force Detains Major Jason Watson in Pretrial Confinement After CNN Criticism of Trump, 1 Month After Capitol Arrest
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Aug 19
Summary
Jason Watson was ordered into pretrial confinement on Aug. 18 and is being held at a Maryland county facility on a military hold, though the Air Force said Wednesday he has not been formally charged.
The Air Force said probable cause supports allegations of “continued misconduct” and that the case remains under investigation, without specifying what conduct triggered the detention.
Watson’s attorney said he suspects the move is tied to Watson’s Monday CNN interview, in which the active-duty major called for Donald Trump’s impeachment and accused him of violating the Constitution and breaking the law.
Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice bars contemptuous words by service members against top officials, and military rules also restrict wearing a uniform during political activity.
Watson was arrested on the Capitol steps on July 1 after urging the removal of Trump and Vice President JD Vance while in uniform, a protest that had not previously led to a military charge.