Biden Signs Executive Order Transferring Authority Over Military Sexual Assault Cases to Independent Prosecutors

President Biden signed an executive order transferring decision-making authority in sexual assault and other serious military cases from commanders to independent prosecutors.
The order implements reforms passed by Congress aimed at strengthening protections for service members and modernizing the military justice system.
Changes establish Offices of Special Trial Counsel composed of independent military lawyers who will handle sexual assault, domestic violence, murder and other violent crimes.
Reforms represent the most significant overhaul of the Uniform Code of Military Justice since its creation in 1950.
Order aims to better protect victims, ensure independent prosecutions, reform sentencing disparities, and improve the military's overall response to violent crimes.