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Former Anchorage Coast Guard commander charged with misconduct

by Channel 2 News staff
Tuesday, November 3, 2009

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Capt. Herbert Mark Hamilton, who led Anchorage's Coast Guard sector until being relieved of his duties in May, was charged with 31 specifications of violating the Uniform Code of Military Justice on Tuesday.

Hamilton was charged with six specifications of failure to obey a lawful general order; two specifications of false official statements; two specifications of indecent acts; three specifications of sodomy; one specification of fraud against the United States; eight specifications of conduct unbecoming an officer and gentleman; two specifications of fraternization; three specifications of adultery; one specification of indecent language; and three specifications of soliciting another to commit an offense, according to a press release from the Coast Guard.

The charges were based on the results of a preliminary investigation conducted by the Coast Guard Investigative Service and a spokesperson said they involve alleged misconduct with other Coast Guard personnel.

The charges will now be investigated further under Article 32 of the Uniform Code, which will determine if they merit a general court-martial or other action. The spokesperson likened the Article 32 hearing to a civilian grand jury, but added that Hamilton and his attorney will be present and can ask questions of witnesses.

Hamilton assumed command of the Anchorage sector in August of 2008. He previously served as deputy commander for Coast Guard operations in the Los Angeles area.