Professor Carpenter was recently featured in Military.com for his expert analysis on the prosecution of a U.S. Air Force airman accused of murder at Ellsworth Air Force Base. The case, involving Airman Basic Quinterius Chappelle, has raised significant legal questions about military vs. civilian jurisdiction in handling serious crimes committed on military installations.
Given the complexity of murder cases, Professor Carpenter explained why the U.S. Attorney’s Office, rather than military prosecutors, is leading the case. Unlike military attorneys—who typically serve in short rotations and have limited exposure to homicide trials—federal prosecutors often have extensive experience handling complex murder cases, making them better equipped for such litigation.
Professor Carpenter’s expertise in military justice, criminal law, and national security law continues to make him a sought-after voice in legal discussions on military prosecutions. His insights contribute to a broader understanding of how serious crimes involving service members are prosecuted and the challenges within military justice systems.