Is Stolen Valor a Felony?
Stolen valor, the act of claiming to have received a military award or decoration when you have not, is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. In this article, we will delve into the legal implications of stolen valor and answer the question: is stolen valor a felony?
Is Stolen Valor a Felony?
The short answer is yes. In the United States, stolen valor is a felony under 18 U.S.C. § 704. This statute makes it illegal to "wear, display, or possess" any uniform or insignia of the armed forces "without authority." Authority includes receiving the award or decoration in question, being entitled to wear the uniform due to military service, or being authorized to wear the uniform for a specific event or ceremony.
Legal Definitions
Before we dive deeper into the legal aspects of stolen valor, let’s define some key terms:
- Stolen valor: Claiming to have received a military award or decoration when you have not.
- Falsely claiming to have received a military award: Making a false statement that you have received a military award or decoration.
- Wearing unauthorized military decorations: Wearing or displaying military decorations or medals that you are not entitled to wear.
Fines and Penalties
The penalties for stolen valor vary depending on the severity of the offense and the individual’s prior criminal record. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fine: Up to $250,000
- Imprisonment: Up to one year
- Community service: Up to 1,000 hours
- Loss of benefits: You may be required to pay back any benefits or monies received as a result of your stolen valor claims.
Federal Laws and Regulations
Here are some key federal laws and regulations related to stolen valor:
| Law/Regulation | Description |
|---|---|
| 18 U.S.C. § 704 | Making false claims to receive a military award or decoration. |
| 10 U.S.C. § 933 | Wearing or displaying unauthorized military uniforms or insignia. |
| Department of Defense Directive 1005.2 | Guidance on the wearing of military uniforms and insignia. |
State Laws and Regulations
Some states have their own laws and regulations regarding stolen valor. Here are a few examples:
| State | Description |
|---|---|
| California | Civil penalty of up to $1,000 for wearing or displaying unauthorized military medals or decorations. |
| Florida | Criminal penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 for falsely claiming to have received a military award. |
| Texas | Criminal penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000 for falsely claiming to have received a military award. |
Consequences
The consequences of stolen valor can be severe and long-lasting. Here are a few examples:
- Damage to reputation: Stealing valor can damage your reputation and undermine public trust in the military and its heroes.
- Financial consequences: You may be required to pay back benefits or monies received as a result of your stolen valor claims.
- Legal consequences: You may face fines, imprisonment, or community service as a result of your actions.
- Loss of privileges: You may lose privileges or benefits, such as military privileges or veteran’s benefits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, stolen valor is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. Whether it’s making false claims to receive a military award or decoration, wearing unauthorized military uniforms or insignia, or possessing stolen valor memorabilia, this type of behavior is illegal and can have long-lasting repercussions. As we remember the sacrifices of our military heroes, it’s important to ensure that those who truly deserve recognition receive it, and that those who attempt to steal valor are held accountable.
