Corps won't speculate on tampered parachutes

Military officials are still investigating why parachutes did not open for three Marine jumpers on Sept. 21, but investigators would not say if suspension lines that hold the parachutes to the risers and harness were cut.

“All we’re saying is suspected tampering,” Camp Lejeune spokesman Col. Keith Oliver said.

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is looking into the matter. If the investigation nets a culprit, the payment would be severe.

The maximum punishment under the Uniform Code of Military Justice for destruction of government property is 10 years in prison. If the accused was found guilty for attempted murder a court martial could prescribe life in prison.

The incident occurred after Marines primarily from Air Delivery Platoon, Beach and Terminal Operations Company, 2nd Transportation Support Battalion, 2nd Force Service Support Group boarded an Air Force C-17 Globemaster at Cherry Point Air Station, according to the Camp Lejeune public affairs office.

http://www.jacksonvilledailynews.com...m?StoryID=7431