by Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA – Legal proceedings are underway for four Army soldiers charged in connection with the sexual assault of a college student in barracks at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, southwest of Tacoma, Washington. The incident, which occurred on October 27, 2024, involved multiple soldiers allegedly assaulting the victim, who has since been commissioned as an Army officer. The case has drawn attention to safety and accountability within military housing, highlighting the ongoing challenges the Army faces in addressing sexual assault in its ranks.
Victim Background and Incident Overview
The victim, whose identity remains confidential, was a college student at the time of the alleged assaults. According to Army spokesperson Michelle McCaskill, the assaults occurred simultaneously, with all four charged soldiers present in the barracks. The victim’s subsequent commissioning as an officer underscores both her resilience and the Army’s responsibility to ensure safe living environments for service members.
McCaskill told NBC affiliate KING of Seattle that the soldiers face multiple charges, including sexual assault, abusive sexual contact, indecent recording, distribution of indecent recordings, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice. Several charges carry multiple counts, referred to as specifications under military law, reflecting the severity and complexity of the case.
Charges Filed Against the Soldiers
The charges against the four soldiers are as follows:
- Cpl. Pedro Angel Ruiz, 29 – Charged with attempted sexual assault, principal to indecent recording, principal to distribution of indecent recording, conspiracy to commit sexual assault, and obstruction of justice. His court-martial trial is scheduled for November 2025, with no plea recorded as of yet.
- Pvt. 2nd Class Deron J. Gordon, 20 – Faces sexual assault, abusive sexual contact, principal to abusive sexual contact, principal to sexual assault, principal to attempted sexual assault, principal to indecent recording, principal to distribution of indecent recording, conspiracy to commit sexual assault, and obstruction of justice. Gordon pleaded guilty, with a hearing scheduled for September 3, 2025.
- Spc. Jadon Bosarge, 24 – Charged with sexual assault, principal to sexual assault, principal to attempted sexual assault, indecent recording, principal to indecent recording, principal to distribution of indecent recording, conspiracy to commit sexual assault, and obstruction of justice.
- Pfc. Kallon Curiel, 24 – Faces charges similar to Bosarge, and in addition, is charged with sexual assault of a child and sexual assault without consent related to a separate alleged incident in Arizona.
Potential Sentences
According to NBC News, Sexual assault and conspiracy to commit sexual assault carry penalties of up to 30 years per specification. If convicted on all counts, each soldier could face multiple decades in prison. McCaskill emphasized that the Army treats sexual assault as a serious violation, holding offenders accountable while prioritizing the safety of victims.
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Army Legal Process and Defense Representation
The Army generally provides defense counsel through its Defense Counsel Assistance Program, ensuring all defendants have legal representation in court-martial proceedings. Attempts to reach counsel for Cpl. Ruiz were unsuccessful. The case underscores the structured nature of military justice, where specialized prosecutors and judges handle complex sexual assault and conspiracy cases.
Broader Context: Sexual Assault in the Military
Sexual assault in military settings has long been a concern for the Department of Defense. According to recent reports, hundreds of service members report sexual assault annually, with barracks and dormitory-style housing often cited as areas of heightened risk. The Army has implemented policies and programs to improve reporting, support victims, and prevent future incidents, including mandatory sexual assault prevention training, counseling services, and dedicated investigative units.
Cases like this one at Joint Base Lewis-McChord demonstrate the challenges of enforcing discipline and accountability, especially in high-stress, communal living environments. The Army has emphasized that perpetrators, regardless of rank, will face the full consequences of their actions, while victims are provided with resources and legal protections to pursue justice.
Court Schedule and Next Steps
Trials for the four soldiers are expected to continue through November 2025. Each defendant will undergo a separate court-martial due to the complexity of the charges and the multiple counts against them. The Army Office of Special Trial Counsel will present evidence, while defense attorneys will provide representation and contest the allegations where applicable.
Key Takeaways
- Four Army soldiers face multiple sexual assault charges at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
- The victim, originally a college student, is now an Army officer.
- Charges include sexual assault, abusive sexual contact, indecent recording, conspiracy, and obstruction of justice.
- Each defendant could face decades-long prison sentences if convicted.
- The Army stresses accountability, safety, and comprehensive legal proceedings for sexual assault cases.
This case is a reminder of the Army’s ongoing efforts to combat sexual assault within its ranks, ensuring that service members can live and work in safe, secure environments.
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