SILVERDALE, Wash. -- Commander, Navy Region Northwest, Rear. Adm. Jeff Ruth, will convene a Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 32 hearing to determine the disposition of a criminal court-martial charge against Capt. James Duke, commanding officer of Naval Station Everett, arising from a sexual assault allegation.
During the UCMJ Article 32 hearing, which is similar to a civilian grand jury proceeding, the charges and information collected will be considered by a senior Navy Judge Advocate who will make a recommendation to Ruth.
Cmdr. Jeff Caulk, the executive officer of Naval Station Everett, has temporarily assumed the duties as commanding officer. Duke has been reassigned to Commander, Navy Region Northwest for the duration of the military justice proceedings. The administrative reassignment of Duke is not an indication of guilt, however it does allow for continuous and unfettered leadership at Naval Station Everett.
Naval Station Everett's mission is to provide superior shore station support to United States Naval and Coast Guard forces, while ensuring readiness and quality of life for Sailors, civilians and their families.
