Morlock to face court martial for role in Afghan killings

WASILLA — A Wasilla soldier accused of participating in premeditated killings of Afghan civilians earlier this year will face a general court martial.

A decision to set a trial for Morlock follows an Article 32 hearing, which is the military equivalent of a grand jury. After reviewing the charges and evidence against Jeremy Morlock, 22, the Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., staff judge advocate has ruled the Houston High School graduate will stand trial on all six charges brought against him, according to a statement released today by the base.

Morlock is one of five soldiers from the base accused of killing three Afghan civilians with grenades and machine guns. Charges he will face in the general court martial include:

• Three counts of premeditated murder.

• Assault.

• Conspiracy to commit premeditated murder and conspiracy to commit assault and battery.

• Wrongfully endeavoring to impede an investigation.

• Violating a lawful general order.

• Wrongfully using a schedule I controlled substance.

If convicted, Morlock faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment without parole, said Maj. Kathleen Turner, a public information specialist with the base.