ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
NAVMC 118(11) (REV. 1-83)
ENTRY IN SERVICE RECORD
NAME: BARNETT, CRYSTAL M.
RANK/RATE: LCpl/E-3
SSN: XXX-XX-7823
UNIT: Military Police Company, 2d Law Enforcement Bn, Camp Lejeune, NC
DATE: 15 April 2009
NATURE OF ACTION: Counseling for Inappropriate Conduct
REMARKS:
On 13 April 2009, LCpl Barnett engaged in a physical altercation with LCpl Jennifer Walsh at the scene of an on-base suicide (Building 247, French Creek Housing). Both Marines were responding as part of the MP unit securing the scene.
According to witness statements, LCpl Barnett became agitated when LCpl Walsh began photographing the scene, claiming Walsh was "contaminating her scene" and "didn't know what the fuck she was doing." When Sgt Martinez ordered Barnett to stand down, she reportedly stated, "This is my call. I was first on scene. Captain Reed assigned ME to lead suicide responses."
Investigation revealed:
LCpl Barnett shoved LCpl Walsh away from the deceased
No such special assignment from Capt Reed existed
LCpl Barnett has repeatedly claimed special status/assignments from command that cannot be verified
This is the third incident of LCpl Barnett becoming territorial over death scenes
When questioned by Capt Reed, LCpl Barnett became emotional, stating she "just wanted to do it right" and "knew he was counting on her to handle things properly." Capt Reed reports no prior discussion of special duties with LCpl Barnett.
LCpl Barnett (commonly referred to as "Memphis" by peers) has demonstrated exemplary technical skills in crime scene processing. However, her quick temper, possessive behavior regarding casework, and tendency to invoke command authority she does not possess are becoming detrimental to unit cohesion.
RECOMMENDATION: Close supervision. Consider reassignment if behavior escalates.
REPORTING OFFICER: 1stLt James Baker, Platoon Commander
WITNESSING OFFICER: Capt Jackson Reed, Company Commander
ACKNOWLEDGED: LCpl C. Barnett (signed under protest - see attached statement)
ATTACHED STATEMENT (LCpl Barnett):
"I was trying to preserve scene integrity like Capt Reed taught us. I know he expects better from his Marines. This complaint is retaliation for me rejecting Sgt Martinez's advances last month. He has had inappropriate romantic relations with multiple female MPs under his direct supervision and I am being punished for not being one of them."
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