Bill pushes military on sexual assault prosecution
The San Diego Union-Tribune reports:
California appears poised to pass first-in-the-nation legislation that would require the National Guard to turn sexual assault cases over to civilian prosecutors — a move meant to push the Pentagon and other states to become more aggressive in pursuing justice for victims.
“While Washington debates how to address the crisis, California can lead by example,” said Sen. Alex Padilla, a Pacoima Democrat carrying the measure.
His legislation would codify in law what’s already established policy within the National Guard and other smaller units formed under the California Military Department. That would prevent the military from later changing directions without legislative permission.
