3 Year Scholarship and Recent Alcohol Related Infraction

G

Giancoli

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Hello,

I am a recipient of the 3 Year Army ROTC Scholarship. However, a few days ago I recently received an infraction for the possession of alcohol. I realize that I made a really stupid mistake, and I plan on reporting it to ROTC officer. I am yet to become a contracted cadet, will this place me at a large risk of losing my scholarship and or being prohibited from entering the program?
 
A few years ago, it probably would not have made a difference, especially if it was your first infraction. Now it's hard to say.

This is a reminder that the period between high school graduation and the 4th of July is a dangerous time of temptation for new graduates.
 
I agree with EDelahanty. The best you can do now is get on the phone and talk to your unit.
 
+1 Pima
Get infront of this ASAP!! Your cadre will likely have a much better view of this if you tell them sooner rather than later. Best of luck.
 
+1 Pima and EDelahanty

And not just dangerous for new grads. A recent ROTC member missed an important summer because he got busted driving down to a local store to buy more booze, a place he could have easily walked to. I am fearing it may be the end of ROTC for him, but I haven't heard. One mistake can really mess up your plans, so PLEASE don't take chances or make choices you KNOW can get you in trouble or even hurt someone.
 
On topic, but off topic, but you may want to look into hiring an attorney. An attorney can be expensive, but may be able to reduce the charge.
~ I hired an attorney for speeding 72 in a 55 zone. I did it for my car insurance premiums. The attorney cost @ 100 bucks more than the fine, my premiums would have increased by 100 a year for 3 years. Don't ask me how they did it, but I paid a $55 fine for operating a non-moving vehicle. Hand to God. We still laugh at how could it be reduced from speeding to a non-moving vehicle.

Don't get me wrong, you still need to inform your unit, but the result of the infraction from a legal aspect can have an impact too. Reducing the charge may be a make or break for you.
 
Tell cadre. Communicate and listen to them. This isn't really about law IMO; this about being a reliable and potentially sound leader. Only one mistake.
 
Just my 2 cents as a former police officer....there is generally no "lesser" crime than an infraction. Not to counter Pima (who has some great advice), but an infraction is so very minor that the only real remedy (if there is one), is to appeal in person should there be any hearing opportunities. Again, in CA, if this were a misdemeanor I'd be a bit more worried..Still, take this serious, get ahead of it, and avoid such issues in the future!
 
+1 to SGTLee I have 22 years as a state certified peace officer so here is my 1.5 cents... Assuming this was an infraction of a city ordinance this is what is likely going to happen. Court date will be set ( be sure to show up on time in business attire). The judge will have the clerk call a bunch of names, you will all stand and be read your rights. For the alcohol infractions you will likely be taken to a seperate room to discuss your case with the assistant district/city attorney. If this is a first offense they will likely offer you a deferment ( some jurisdictions call it a suspended sentence). If you stay out of trouble for 3-6 months, pay your fines and attend the alcohol class the incident will likely be completly stricken from your record. I will not get into SF-86, security clearances .... You will likely have to pay a fine $200-$300, court costs of $50-$75 and alcohol class $150-$200. IMPO this is a non issue in the eyes of the law. In most jurisdictions this type of ticket is on the same level as loud party, tall weeds and trash in your yard. The ticket is the least of your worries right now. You need to tell your cadre asap. Be prepared to explain what you have learned from the experience and how it will help you make better choices in the future. You are not the first to do this and won't be the last. Now take a deep breath, stand tall and know no matter the outcome you will be fine. Good luck.
 
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