Defense Department officials have prepared a draft rule that
would amend the Manual for Courts-Martial to make it an offense
for troops to use the services of prostitutes, said Charles
Abell, principal DoD deputy for personnel and readiness. The
draft amendment is designed to lessen the possibility that
troops will contribute to human trafficking in areas near
overseas bases by patronizing women forced into prostitution.
Officials also will distribute a training program for troops
and contractors in November. It will explain DoD policy on
trafficking, and the possibility of legal action against
violators, Abell stated. The draft rule will be open to 60
days of public comment after being published in the Federal
Register.
