• A military doctor received a sentence of just over 13 years in prison.
• Maj. Michael Stockin pleaded guilty to multiple counts of sexual abuse against soldiers.
• Victims testified about the long-lasting emotional and psychological effects of the abuse.
• Lawyers representing victims are seeking accountability from the Army for negligence.
• Stockin will serve his sentence at Fort Leavenworth and be required to register as a sex offender.

A military doctor at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Maj. Michael Stockin, has been sentenced to just over 13 years in prison for sexually abusing numerous male soldiers under the guise of medical treatment. Following his guilty plea earlier this year to multiple charges—including 36 specifications of abusive sexual contact and five of indecent viewing—Stockin was ordered to forfeit all military pay and benefits, and he has been dismissed from the U.S. Army. The Army's (AP News) reported that the prosecution emphasized the importance of accountability, with Maj. Allyson Montgomery stating, “The sentence imposed by the court holds Maj. Stockin accountable for every person he victimized through his crimes.”

During the sentencing hearing, victims had the opportunity to share their experiences, describing the traumatic and damaging effects of Stockin's actions on their mental and emotional health. Many noted that they suffer from enduring anxiety and shame, and they are often reluctant to seek medical attention due to their experiences. “The resilience of the victims in this case should be celebrated,” stated lead prosecutor Maj. Ryan Keeter, acknowledging the difficulty faced by those who testified.

Stockin's abusive behavior was reported to the Army in 2022, leading to an investigation that later confirmed numerous allegations of misconduct. In the courtroom, 22 of the 41 victims provided statements detailing the ongoing trauma they have endured. One soldier recounted an incident where Stockin's examination turned inappropriate, stating, “I was very confused” as the doctor made unwarranted physical contact—a sentiment echoed by several other victims. These revelations were substantiated by witness testimonies during the trial, as reported by (CBS News).

Lawyers representing victims additionally filed Federal Tort Claims Act complaints against both the Army and the Department of Defense, alleging negligence in hiring and supervising Stockin. Each claim seeks damages of $5 million due to emotional distress inflicted upon the victims. Christine Dunn, an attorney for the victims, expressed that while Stockin's sentencing offers a measure of justice, true accountability for the Army's role in enabling this abuse is crucial. “These brave soldiers are now riddled with anxiety and shame,” Dunn remarked, emphasizing the need for the Army to face repercussions for their failures.

Following his sentencing, Stockin will be transferred to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to serve his time. Upon completion of his sentence, he will be required to register as a sex offender, complying with both federal and state registration laws. This disturbing case highlights the serious issue of sexual abuse within the military healthcare system and raises questions about the safeguards in place to protect service members from such predatory behavior.

For more in-depth coverage on this topic, click on the original articles from AP News and CBS News.