Air Force Academy Misconduct System

February 15, 2026

The Air Force Academy Misconduct System is unique and complicated. Attorney Barry, an experienced Military Lawyer, explains in depth at this link.

The Air Force Academy Misconduct System is governed by Air Force Cadet Wing Instruction 51-201, available for download at the USAFA official website. When a Cadet is accused or suspected of misconduct, he/she is subject to all of the same adverse actions that all other members of the Air Force are. For example, the following adverse actions can be taken:

For each of these actions, Cadets will get due process. The due process for each of these actions is explained in depth at the links above. Of note, Cadets should understand that when they face a Article 15/NJP, there is no standard of proof. This means that the Officer imposing the punishment (Commandant or Superintendent) needs no proof to punish a Cadet. However, because of this, Cadets can demand trial by Court-Martial. This lack of a standard of proof is unique to the Air Force.

The Air Force Academy Misconduct System allows for an unfavorable information file (UIF) to be established. Court Martial convictions and Article 15s/NJPs must be filed in a Cadet's UIF. However, LORs, LOAs, and LOCs can be filed in a Cadet's UIF at the Commander's discretion. A good rebuttal to one of these actions can prevent the establishment of a UIF, lessening the long term effect of these actions.

The Air Force Academy Misconduct System also allows Cadets to be disenrolled from the USAFA. The disenrollment process is explained in depth at this link. Of note, the following offenses are presumptive disenrollment offenses, unless extreme mitigating circumstances are presented:

the use/abuse of intoxicating substances, as defined by DoDD 1010.4, AFI 36-3208, and AFR 44-121
any alcohol related offense of an especially aggravated or egregious nature; this specifically includes providing alcohol to someone under 21, driving while intoxicated, or any second alcohol related offense
an alcohol related offense that includes a false official statement
unprofessional relationship with a fourth-class Cadet
hazing
sexual assault, or
a felony civilian conviction, a conviction for an offense (or a closely related one) that would authorize a punitive discharge under the MCM, or a conviction resulting in 6 months or more of confinement

Furthermore, Cadets can face severe consequences through the Honor Investigation process, explained in depth at this link.

Additionally, the Air Force Academy Misconduct System includes something called the Cadet Discipline System (CDS). The CDS includes the use of AFCW Form 10, demerits, confinements, work details, tours and restrictions. The system is intended to enhance and add to the options available within the UCMJ. The CDS includes categories of offenses, with recommended punishments by category:

Category 1: minor deviations from dress and appearance standards, first-time late or unexcused absence from class or formation, and minor-deviations from room standards
Category 2: major or repeated deviations from dress and appearance standards, repeated late or unexcused absence from class or formation, improper pass usage or improper sign-out procedures, major or repeated deviations from room standards, and positive dormitory inspection (DI) accounted for
Category 3: unauthorized absence from the cadet area, positive DI unaccounted for, possession of unauthorized weapons per the Cadet Sight Picture (CSP), maintaining an unauthorized vehicle, failure to obey a lawful order
Category 4: unauthorized absence from the cadet area, failure to obey a lawful order, intimate behavior in the cadet dormitories, demonstrated unprofessional relationship, dereliction of duty, and physical maltreatment/hazing

If the CDS is used, a Cadet can present a written Defense, which can include additional evidence.

Any Cadet facing any aspect of the Air Force Academy Misconduct System should immediately consult with an experienced Military Defense Lawyer. A good written rebuttal, which should include a detailed rebuttal to the allegations with additional evidence attached (if applicable), can result in the USAFA Cadet being exonerated or the punishment lessened. Furthermore, experienced and effective representation at a Board of Inquiry/Admin Discharge Board can make all the difference. While ADCs are available to assist, they are typically inexperienced, overworked, and unable or unwilling to provide the level of attention necessary for a Cadet to present a good Defense. A civilian Military Lawyer can be retained, which allows a Cadet to be represented by a proven lawyer with good former client reviews.

This Article was written by Attorney Matthew Barry. Attorney Barry and his team are highly rated by former clients and have a proven track record of success. They have extensive experience with all types of Military Adverse Actions, including USAFA Misconduct and other types of USAFA punishment.

Furthermore, The Law Office of Matthew Barry has an office in Colorado Springs (near USAFA) manned by Attorney Gittleman. This allows in-person meetings with USAFA Cadets facing the Air Force Academy Misconduct System and physical presence at any involuntary separation hearings.