Air Force Major’s Sodomy Trial Opens

Sodomy charges against an Air Force major accused of having a lesbian affair should be dismissed, her lawyer said as the major’s court-martial opened in San Antonio, accusing the military of violating its “don’t ask, don’t tell, don’t pursue” policy. Defense lawyer Peter Held repeatedly accused the Air Force of engaging in selective prosecution of Maj. Debra Meeks, who is being court-martialed on a charge of violating a military code against “unnatural” sex. Prosecutors said Meeks violated the code by having an affair with a woman, a charge she denies. A 19-year veteran, Meeks faces discharge, loss of retirement benefits and eight years in jail if convicted.