AWOL from National Guard

[lilyclare]

My step-daughter graduated from CA National Guard AIT in Dec. 2008. She decided she wanted to transfer to full Army, but they would not release her. She has since taken off to another state, driving a car she purchased with her bonus money. She has not made one full payment since April so if she's located, the car may be repossessed; she's stolen her dad's GPS and money from her brother's wallet; she has not been transferred from one state to another; she's not answering any phone messages or texts and we know she's avoiding her sergeants' calls.

My questions: Is she AWOL? What will happen to her if she's found? Does the National Guard actively search for AWOL soldiers? We're seriously thinking of turning her in because she is on a self-destructive path, and getting caught may just be the best thing for her. How do we go about letting the National Guard know her approximate whereabouts?

[LawResearcherMissy]

Is she AWOL?

If she has not reported for drills, she is AWOL.

What will happen to her if she's found?

That depends on her status. Unless her unit is called up for active service, the Uniform Code of Military Justice does not apply - Guard units belong to their respective states, not the Federal government. She may be fined. She may be transferred to the IRR. She may be dishonorably discharged.

This would be up to her Unit Commander.

How do we go about letting the National Guard know her approximate whereabouts?

Contact her Unit Commander.

[lilyclare]

Thank you for your response. It was very informative.

[bigcountrysg]

Depending on how long she has gone with out reporting. She maybe in Deserter Status by this point.

AWOL Status, is usually held for 30 days. On the 31st day you are removed from AWOL status and placed on Deserter Status.