Readers: Stolen valor penalties woefully inadequate

Do you think the crime of stolen valor is under-prosecuted? 

To say that the majority of our readers do is an understatement. It’s not even close. 

Stolen valor is a form of deceptive impersonation that dishonors those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s the act of fabricating military decorations, medals or other awards to gain profits or notoriety. 

The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 was a federal law passed by Congress that made it illegal to make false statements about having a military medal. Its penalties may include up to a year in prison and hefty fines. Yet, according to the U.S. National Archives, “while it may be morally reprehensible,” it is usually not prosecuted as a crime. 

After a former Maricopa Marine found himself stuck in a volley of stolen valor accusations, InMaricopa asked our readers if the penalty fits the crime. 

A total of 2,800 votes were cast on InMaricopa’s poll.  

The overwhelming majority, a total of 2,398 people or 86% of voters, said penalties for stolen valor are not strict enough. Just 13% of voters, or 373 people, think the penalties fit the crime. A pitiful 1% of voters, 29 people, said penalties for stolen valor were too strict.  

Readers commented and shared the story on the former Maricopa Marine’s fraudulent activities on Facebook. The comments seemed to line up with the votes. 

Gina Monty commented two words that summed up her thoughts on the case, “No honor.”  

“As a veteran this just makes me skin crawl. Being a veteran is an honor in itself, so to embellish to this extreme is disgraceful,” said Ashley Wallace. 

“This is horrific! I hope he does face prosecution,” commented Kimberly Wilson. 

James Kelley commented his opinion: “As a Veteran who served honorably this makes me sick! Especially being local! I hope this doesn’t make our little community see all of us Veterans this way…” 

Jill Hagner also commented her thoughts, “This is truly abhorrent behavior and offensive to all the brave men and women who honorably served our country. 

“I hope he faces strict consequences for what I consider to be deceit at the highest level.” 

 

Vote in this week’s poll.