Air Force Major Held in Pretrial Confinement, Lawyer Says

Air Force Maj. Jason Watson remains in pretrial confinement after publicly criticizing President Donald Trump, and his attorney says he is held alone around the clock, including during meals and exercise. The Air Force has not publicly addressed the attorney’s description of the conditions. Watson has not been convicted, and no trial date has been set. Christopher Mutimer said on October 9 that Watson was still in solitary confinement 24 hours a day. Mutimer’s account, relayed in an interview, is the available description of Watson’s current conditions. The Air Force has not publicly confirmed the reported isolation or explained why he is being held that way. Watson was arrested July 1 after demonstrating in uniform on the steps of the U.S. Capitol with a sign reading “Impeach. Convict. Remove.” On August 17, he reiterated his criticism of Trump in an interview. The Air Force ordered him into pretrial confinement the following day, citing probable cause supporting allegations of continued misconduct. The service has said Watson is presumed innocent and is entitled to rights under military law, including review of his confinement.