Do you have to notify your unit about written warnings?

2023-05-26T15:54:56-04:00

I was driving on post after being released. I got pulled over for not properly stopping for a stop sign.
The officer gave me a written warning. Will my chain of command find out or is this something I’m supposed to notify them about. The officer said I didn’t have too but, I just want to be sure especially since I’m at the NCOA.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 26 at 2023 6:13 PM

2023-05-26T18:13:47-04:00

You probably will be on the morning Report- play it safe and at least tell your PSG/LT

Response by COL Randall C. made May 26 at 2023 6:20 PM

2023-05-26T18:20:31-04:00

So, easiest answer first. Is there a policy in place that requires you to do so? If the answer to that is yes, then you have your answer. I couldn't find any instance where a written warning for failure to stop at a stop sign would lead to disciplinary action (DUI - yes, Reckless driving - yes, written warning for failure to properly stop - no) from any of the Academies.

Will a written warning show up on the base's daily traffic report and will your unit find out? Depends on the policies on post. Some enter all written warnings on the blotter, just like a ticket while at other bases they don't.

A written warning can show up on your driving record (as opposed to a verbal one which won't), but it varies by state. If it does go on your record, does this mean your unit will see it? Very unlikely. However, COULD they? Yes (I could easily think of a few hypothetical situations where it would come to the light of day).

Back to the policy - if your unit requires you to report by policy, then do so. Since your in the Academy now, one of the things they probably have is a policy on honor violations, and THAT will get you thrown out if it is seen that way (you knew what you were supposed to do but decided to withhold the information).

If there is a policy in place, I would just talk to your first-line leader and explain that you had a minor traffic infraction. You didn't fully stop at a stop sign and were given a warning by the police officer to pay better intention.

Response by COL Dan Ruder made Jun 3 at 2023 11:09 PM

2023-06-03T23:09:39-04:00

The command receives a military police blotter report every day directly to their email. The blotter states the name of the person, the offense, and if a citation or a warning was issued. If it's a warning, the command will know about it.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jun 4 at 2023 5:54 AM

2023-06-04T05:54:21-04:00

Always keep your unit informed. Any negative interaction with authority is reportable. It helps keep you out in front and gives the unit the opportunity to prepare, if needed, a response or other. I assure you everyone has rolled a stop sign.