Hailey
A 28-year-old Kansas City woman, identified as Mary C. Brewer, has been arrested on military desertion charges connected to Fort Riley, Kansas.
The arrest was made following a military warrant, and she is now awaiting extradition to military custody.
Officials confirmed that she will soon be transferred to Fort Riley, where she will face proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Brewer is currently being held at the Jackson County Detention Center under a military hold while legal arrangements are completed for her return to military jurisdiction.
Key Case Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Suspect Name | Mary C. Brewer |
| Age | 28 |
| Location of Arrest | Kansas City, Missouri |
| Alleged Offense | Military Desertion |
| Linked Installation | Fort Riley, Kansas |
| Custody Status | Held in Jackson County Detention Center (military hold) |
| Next Step | Extradition to Fort Riley |
| Possible Penalties | Dishonorable discharge, forfeiture of pay and allowances, imprisonment, or other punishment under UCMJ Article 85 |
Understanding Military Desertion
Under Article 85 of the UCMJ, desertion is one of the most serious military crimes. It occurs when a service member leaves their assigned duty or post with the intent not to return, or to avoid hazardous duty.
The charge carries severe penalties depending on circumstances.
In peacetime, punishment may include dishonorable discharge, loss of rank and pay, and imprisonment.
In wartime, the potential penalties increase significantly.
While the maximum punishment under wartime conditions can technically include the death penalty, such outcomes are extremely rare in modern times.
What Happens After Arrest
Once Brewer is officially extradited to Fort Riley, she will be handed over to military authorities. The following steps will likely occur:
- Notification of Rights – Brewer will be informed of her rights under the Uniform Code of Military Justice and provided with military legal counsel.
- Article 32 Preliminary Hearing – A hearing officer will review the case to determine if there is probable cause to move forward to a court-martial.
- Court-Martial Proceedings – If sufficient evidence exists, Brewer will face a court-martial, where she can present a defense.
- Sentencing (if convicted) – Any conviction under Article 85 could result in confinement, pay forfeiture, or discharge from service.
Why This Case Matters
The upcoming Fort Riley proceedings highlight how military justice extends beyond active duty posts.
Even if a soldier leaves service without permission, the U.S. Army maintains jurisdiction and can pursue charges years later.
This case also emphasizes the partnership between civilian and military authorities. Local law enforcement in Missouri coordinated with federal military officials to ensure the arrest and transfer under lawful procedure.
Observers believe that Brewer’s case will be closely watched in 2025 and 2026, as the Army continues to reinforce accountability for unauthorized absences and desertion during active service.
Broader Context
Fort Riley, located in Geary County, Kansas, is home to thousands of U.S. soldiers and plays a key role in Army operations.
Cases involving desertion or unauthorized absence have historically been handled swiftly to maintain discipline and readiness within the ranks.
As the process unfolds, officials will likely confirm whether Brewer voluntarily left her post or failed to return after approved leave — both of which can trigger desertion investigations depending on intent.
What to Expect Next
- Transfer and booking at Fort Riley military facility.
- Formal charge confirmation and assignment of defense counsel.
- Scheduling of Article 32 hearing to evaluate evidence.
- Possible referral to general court-martial for trial.
- Final ruling and sentence depending on findings.
The legal process could extend into early 2026, depending on the complexity of the case and whether a plea deal or full trial occurs.
The arrest of Mary C. Brewer in Kansas City marks the beginning of a serious military legal process that will soon shift to Fort Riley.
Her case underscores how desertion remains a major violation under military law, even years after an absence.
As proceedings advance into 2026, the outcome will demonstrate how the U.S. Army enforces discipline and accountability across both civilian and military jurisdictions.
FAQs
What is the difference between AWOL and desertion?
AWOL means a soldier left duty without permission but may intend to return. Desertion means the person left with no intent to return or to avoid duty, making it a much more serious offense.
How soon will she face military trial?
After extradition, Brewer’s Article 32 hearing could happen within weeks. If probable cause is found, her court-martial may follow in early 2026.
Can desertion charges be dropped?
Yes, if the defense shows lack of intent to desert or other mitigating factors, the charge may be reduced to absence without leave (AWOL) or dismissed.