Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces Overturns Airman’s Conviction; Restores Honor and Career

Montana Air

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC announced today a significant victory before the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces (CAAF), which unanimously reversed the wrongful conviction of an Airman wrongfully convicted of cocaine use.  The unanimous decision found that prosecutors had wrongfully failed to disclose exculpatory evidence under Brady v. Maryland.

This decision likely secures more than three years of back pay and allowances for the Airman and, most importantly, removes his criminal conviction, ensuring he will be honorably discharged.

From Injustice to Vindication

The young Airman faced a devastating court-martial conviction in 2021 at Little Rock Air Force Base after the government withheld and destroyed critical evidence that could have exonerated him. While one of his co-accused was acquitted and another not even charged, the Airman was left with a court martial conviction, “bad paper” discharge, denied appellate review, and forced to rebuild his life working at a Home Depot.

After his initial Article 69 petition was denied, the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC took the case pro bono. When the Air Force Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed the conviction, Senior Military Defense Attorney Annie Morgan, argued the appeal before the CAAF in Spring of 2025.

This morning, the CAAF issued its unanimous decision, ruling that the lower court erred in dismissing withheld exculpatory evidence, a clear violation of Brady v. Maryland. The Court found the government’s destruction of investigative files and failure to disclose evidence fundamentally undermined the fairness of the trial.

A Voice for All Service Members

“This case reaffirms that every service member, no matter their rank, deserves a fair trial,” said Annie Morgan, Senior Military Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon. “Our client stood alone for years, but today the Court has restored his honor and ensured that justice prevails.”

Case Impact

The Court set aside both the findings and the sentence, underscoring that suppressed evidence of potential innocent ingestion and investigative misconduct should have been disclosed.

This ruling strengthens due-process protections across the armed forces and sends a clear message that the government must honor its constitutional discovery obligations.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, based in Washington, D.C., is a nationally recognized firm representing military service members, federal employees, and veterans. With a focus on courts-martial defense, medical retirement boards, and appeals before military and federal courts, the firm is committed to safeguarding the rights, careers, and honor of those who serve.

Disclaimer

This release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is created by this announcement.

 

Army Officer Files for Correction of Military Records After Career-Ending Injustice

Army Commander Files for Correction of Records

Attorney Dylan Thayer of The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC filed a petition on behalf of a former U.S. Army officer, seeking long-overdue correction of her military records. The filing alleges that administrative delays, wrongful documentation, and unjust proceedings led directly to the premature end of the officer’s Army career.

The case centers on the Army’s mishandling of a General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand (GOMOR) issued in 2017. Although the officer accepted responsibility and demonstrated years of exemplary service afterward, including letters of support from commanding officers and strong performance reviews, her record was never corrected in time to prevent an unfair separation. Even the issuing general later confirmed that the reprimand had “served its intended purpose” and should have been removed.

Despite this, bureaucratic delays allowed the reprimand to influence promotion and retention boards, effectively ending the officer’s military service in 2021. The filing argues that the Army Board for Correction of Military Records must now grant relief, including reinstatement, retroactive promotion consideration, and the removal of the unjust reprimand.

“This case is about fairness, justice, and the Army’s duty to uphold its own regulations,” said Dylan Thayer, counsel for the officer. “Our client gave years of honorable service and demonstrated rehabilitation, yet her career was cut short by administrative errors that the Army itself acknowledged were unjust.”

The petition also details the severe toll the separation has taken on the officer’s mental health, including treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. Advocates argue that correcting her record is not only required by law but essential to restoring the integrity of the Army’s personnel system.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

Based in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC represents service members, veterans, and federal employees in matters involving military justice, medical boards, security clearance actions, and corrections of military records. With decades of experience, the firm is committed to protecting the rights and careers of those who serve.

Disclaimer

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this release does not create an attorney-client relationship with the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC.

U.S. Air Force Member Granted Honorable Discharge, Opens Path to Medical Evaluation Board Review

A service member represented by the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC has been granted an Honorable Discharge from the United States Air Force, following the approval of a conditional waiver by Major General Daniel A. DeVoe, Commander of the Air Force District of Washington (AFDW). This decision closes an administrative separation proceeding and allows the member to move forward with a Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) process to address service-related health concerns.

Originally initiated due to allegations of misconduct, the administrative discharge proceedings temporarily halted the member’s medical review process. However, with the recent decision to issue an Honorable Discharge, the member is now eligible to pursue further review before the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR) in an effort to reinstate the MEB.

“This is a significant and affirming step,” said Annie Morgan, Senior Military Attorney at the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon. “It not only honors our client’s service but also acknowledges the importance of ensuring access to the medical systems designed to support service members affected by trauma. We are now in a position to re-engage with the MEB process so that our client can receive a full and fair evaluation of their health conditions.”

The member’s appeal to preserve the MEB was initially denied after a military separation board determined that the member’s conduct was not linked to any underlying service-connected disability. That decision is now subject to further review. The legal team argues that the misconduct was closely tied to undiagnosed or untreated PTSD and related behaviors stemming from operational stress.

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is now preparing the client’s petition to the AFBCMR, advocating for the reinstatement of MEB proceedings and any related benefits the member may be entitled to under military disability retirement rules.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
Based in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC provides aggressive and compassionate legal representation to service members across all branches of the military. The firm is nationally recognized for its expertise in military justice, medical retirements, security clearance defense, and discharge upgrades.

Legal Disclaimer: The content of this press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Individuals seeking legal representation should consult with a qualified attorney.

Veteran USPHS Officer Challenges Unlawful Denial of Career-Defining Benefits in Federal Court

A decorated officer of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS), with over three decades of distinguished service across multiple branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that bureaucratic failures and unlawful actions within the Department of Health and Human Services unjustly derailed his career, denied him a well-earned promotion to the rank of Captain, and significantly reduced his retirement benefits.

The legal action, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks judicial review of the USPHS Board for Correction’s refusal to credit six months of volunteer hospice work toward the officer’s Training and Education (TED) credit, a critical factor in determining initial rank, career trajectory, and eligibility for timely promotion. Despite multiple requests dating back to 2005 and a detailed appeal filed in 2022, the Board rejected his application as “untimely” and unsupported, ignoring compelling new evidence and legal arguments. His reconsideration request was also summarily denied in less than 24 hours by a contractor who lacked legal authority to issue such a decision.

“This is a case of clear legal error compounded by procedural miscues,” said Dylan Thayer, lead counsel from the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, based in Washington, D.C. “Our client was misinformed by USPHS officials at the time of his recommissioning. Because of that bad advice, he was brought in at too low a rank, which permanently altered his promotion timeline and ultimately cost him a Captain’s commission. To make matters worse, the agency then ignored its own precedent, denied reconsideration through improper channels, and turned a blind eye to its own regulations.”

The plaintiff, who served in the Navy, Army National Guard, and USPHS, had consistently received superior performance evaluations and was nominated for commendations, including for his role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. His lawsuit cites violations of federal administrative law, including the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. § 706), and challenges the Board’s refusal to even consider the similarities between his case and a prior Board ruling (PHS BCMR Case No. 18-005) in which another officer was granted full TED credit under nearly identical circumstances.

“This isn’t just about one officer’s career,” Thayer emphasized. “It’s about ensuring that our federal service members are treated fairly, that their records reflect their actual contributions, and that agencies follow the law instead of arbitrarily denying benefits based on flawed or biased processes.”

If successful, the case could result in the officer’s record being corrected to reflect the higher TED credit, a retroactive promotion to Captain, and significant backpay and increased retirement benefits. The implications may also extend to other current and former USPHS officers who were misadvised or administratively mishandled.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

Located in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC is a nationally recognized law firm specializing in military and federal employment law. The firm represents service members, veterans, and federal employees in matters involving military justice, promotions, disability and retirement benefits, and wrongful termination.

 

Disclaimer

This press release is issued by the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship.

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street SE, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575 |  www.militarydefense.com

The Silence That Killed Her: How the Army Missed a Soldier’s Cancer and Then Denied Her Justice

Maria Martinez A Life Cut Short By Military Malpractice
Photo of Maria Martinez before.             Her Father Carrying Maria, His Daughter, Down Stairs 
By the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC

April 24, 2025 | Washington, D.C.

Maria was 23 years old when she first told her primary care provider something was wrong.

She had a known BRCA2 mutation, a family history steeped in breast and ovarian cancer, and symptoms that no one could ignore, nipple retraction, a persistent rash, chest pain, and shortness of breath that worsened by the day. She followed every protocol. She asked for care. And she trusted the system built to protect her.

But the system, the Army’s medical bureaucracy, failed her.

Again and again, Maria returned to her military clinic at Fort Bliss. A civilian breast specialist, concerned about her condition, recommended an MRI to rule out Paget’s disease, a rare form of breast cancer. But the order was incorrectly entered as a routine screening rather than a diagnostic test. That subtle coding error, one checkbox, led to two denials by TRICARE. Even after oncology clarified the necessity, her request remained tangled in backlogs and electronic referrals, unaddressed for months.

As her pain worsened and her lungs began to fill with bloody fluid, Maria’s symptoms were written off as psychological. A misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder appeared in her chart. One provider even suggested she had borderline personality disorder, attributing her despair and anxiety to mental instability, not the growing cancer that was quietly spreading to her bones, liver, and lungs.

“She was trying to survive,” said one of the physicians who later treated her at William Beaumont Army Medical Center. “We were draining liters of fluid from her chest every other day. Her cancer was everywhere, and we all knew what it meant. But she kept smiling. She kept fighting.”

As her condition worsened and her body began to fail, her family turned to the only path for accountability they had—filing a malpractice claim under the 2020 Richard Stayskal Military Medical Accountability Act, a law created to give active-duty service members and their families a voice when medical negligence occurs. In Maria’s case, that negligence wasn’t a single oversight—it was a cascade of systemic failures: a high-risk cancer misclassified as routine, urgent diagnostic imaging delayed for months, unmistakable symptoms dismissed as mental illness, and red flags ignored by a medical bureaucracy that never escalated her care. These were not just errors in judgment—they were preventable lapses that allowed a curable disease to become terminal.

Maria died in December 2021—just one month after the claim was submitted.

The Department of Defense denied it.

The Department of Defense cited the statute of limitations, choosing the earliest possible date of harm—the day Maria’s MRI was first requested—rather than the date she was actually diagnosed.

This decision matters.

By selecting the earliest possible date, the DoD ignored the reality of Maria’s case: she didn’t know the extent of the harm yet. Her cancer hadn’t been diagnosed, let alone explained to her. In medical malpractice law, especially in cases involving delayed diagnosis, the clock is often based on when the patient discovers the injury—not when the error technically occurred.

Choosing the initial MRI request date was not just legally avoidable—it was strategic. It allowed the Department to declare her family’s claim “too late,” despite the fact that Maria was still actively seeking care, still serving on active duty, and still unaware of the fatal disease progressing inside her.

They also failed to honor 50 U.S.C. § 3936, a federal law that pauses legal deadlines while a service member is on active duty. Maria served her country the entire time.

“She didn’t miss the deadline,” said David P. Sheldon, the attorney representing Maria’s family. “The system chose to pretend she did. This case is about more than delay, it’s about denial. Denial of care. Denial of responsibility. Denial of justice.”

The injustice didn’t end with her death.

Maria’s family was also denied the full life insurance (SGLI) she was entitled to. At one point, during the course of her care, she was reportedly advised to reduce her coverage, a decision made while she was undiagnosed and in emotional distress. Her parents are now fighting to restore those benefits and demand acknowledgment from the Defense Department that what happened to Maria was wrong.

But Maria’s story is not an isolated tragedy.

At the same clinic where Maria sought care, two other enlisted soldiers were misdiagnosed around the same time, one with an undetected lymphoma, the other with a life-threatening cardiac condition. All three were enlisted. All three were initially dismissed.

“I was once enlisted too,” said the same physician from WBAMC. “And I’ve seen it: when a Private walks in with pain, people roll their eyes. But when a Colonel comes in, we call in all the consults. Maria wasn’t the exception. She was just the one who didn’t survive.”

Data backs these experiences. A 2024 Science study analyzing 1.5 million military emergency room visits found that lower-ranking service members received less clinical attention than higher-ranking officers. The same study reported that white doctors exerted less effort when treating Black patients, a bias only partly mitigated by rank.

Enlisted service members, particularly those from minority or disadvantaged backgrounds, face an uphill battle for equitable care. In many clinics, they first see medics or mid-level providers like PAs, many of whom carry overwhelming patient loads. Some never reach a board-certified physician unless they make it to the ER.

In the end, Maria’s cancer wasn’t what killed her. It was the delays, the misdiagnoses, and the indifference. Had she received a timely diagnostic workup in early 2019, her doctors estimate she would have had a 98% chance of survival. Instead, her cancer was allowed to spread unchecked. She lived just 26 months after her diagnosis.

Now, her case is being cited in policy circles, from media outlets to academic forums, as a call to reform military medical malpractice procedures and close the care gap between officers and enlisted.

The family, alongside advocates, is urging Congress to:

  • Enforce the tolling of deadlines under 50 U.S.C. § 3936
  • Default to the “date of discovery” in malpractice cases involving progressive disease
  • Allow for judicial review for denied claims
  • Mandate transparency in claims process
  • Ensure all members have access to competent medical care
  • Protect medical whistleblowers within the military system

“She did everything right,” said the same doctor who treated her above, a former enlisted Soldier “She followed orders, reported symptoms, and trusted the system. And she died because no one listened.”

Maria’s case was heard on April 24, 2025, by an Appeals Board that reviewed the Army’s denial of her claim. A decision will be announced in May.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC, located in Washington, D.C., is a national leader in military and federal litigation. With decades of experience representing service members across all branches, the firm is dedicated to upholding the rights of those who serve—including in cases of medical malpractice, courts-martial defense, retirement appeals, and constitutional claims. For more information, visit www.militarydefense.com.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Contact

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
militarydefense.com | (202) 546-9575

 

Resources and References

Legal Statutes

  • U.S. Code § 2733a – Medical Malpractice Claims by Members of the Uniformed Services
    Medical Malpractice Claims
    ecfr.gov  Part 45—Medical Malpractice Claims by Members of the Uniformed Services
  • 10 USC 2733a: Medical malpractice claims by members of the uniformed services Text contains those laws in effect on April 21, 2025
  • Servicemembers Civil Relief Act – 50 U.S.C. § 3936 (Statute of Limitations) Research & Reports

 

 

 

Air Force Civilian Paid Significant Multi Six Figure Settlement and Six Figure Attorneys’ Fees to Resolve Discrimination Case

Law Offices of David P. Sheldon Secures Just Resolution Following EEOC Sign-Off

Washington, D.C. – April 18, 2025 — A federal civilian employee of the United States Air Force has reached a confidential settlement in a workplace discrimination case after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) approved the agreement and formally dismissed the complaint with prejudice on April 16, 2025​.

The resolution followed a thorough and iterative review process by the EEOC administrative judge, who requested updates to the agreement language before ultimately granting approval. The complainant, an African American senior-ranking civilian employee, had alleged a hostile and discriminatory work environment stemming from repeated incidents involving her immediate supervisor. Claims included harassment on the basis of race and age, bullying, intimidation, and the creation of a toxic work environment​.

Annie Morgan, Senior Military Attorney with the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, represented the complainant throughout the proceedings. “This settlement represents a meaningful conclusion to a deeply distressing chapter in our client’s federal service,” said Morgan. “She showed incredible courage by coming forward and asserting her rights. We are proud to have helped her obtain justice and preserve her professional reputation.”

The terms of the agreement include both a six-figure monetary compensation including reimbursement of attorney fees and restoration by various specific administrative remedies to be applied by the Air Force. In addition, the agreement includes provisions that support transparency and post-resolution compliance monitoring, ensuring the complainant’s dignity and rights are fully restored​.

While the exact financial terms of the settlement are confidential, the judge has issued a formal dismissal order, closing the case and granting the parties’ joint motion for resolution​.

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
Based in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC provides experienced legal representation in military, federal employment, and national security matters. The firm’s attorneys are nationally recognized for their advocacy on behalf of service members, federal employees, and civilians navigating complex legal disputes within government agencies.

Contact:
Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, PLLC
100 M Street SE, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

 

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. If you or someone you know is facing injustice or abuse of authority within the federal government or military, consult a qualified attorney experienced in UCMJ and federal employment law.

Over 800 Law Firms Join Forces to Defend Constitutional Advocacy Rights in DOJ Retaliation Case Against Jenner & Block

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon stands in solidarity with 806 other firms nationwide in a sweeping amicus brief filed today in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The brief supports Jenner & Block LLP in its legal challenge against a March 25 Executive Order issued by the current Administration, which imposes punitive sanctions against the firm for its client advocacy work.

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon, a Washington, D.C.-based litigation firm focused on military and federal law, joined this powerful coalition of law firms who argue the Executive Order represents a “grave threat to the rule of law and our constitutional system of governance”​.

“The retaliation we are witnessing against Jenner & Block—and previously against Perkins Coie, WilmerHale, and others—is nothing less than an abuse of executive power aimed at silencing lawful advocacy,” said David P. Sheldon, founder of the firm. “We are proud to stand with hundreds of our colleagues to affirm that the independence of the bar must not be undermined by political agendas.”

The amicus brief, officially titled Brief of Amici Curiae of 807 Law Firms in Support of Plaintiff’s Motion for Summary Judgment and for Declaratory and Permanent Injunctive Relief, underscores that the Executive Order:

  • Revokes security clearances from law firm personnel,
  • Denies access to federal facilities and contracts,
  • Allegedly punishes the firm for pro bono activities that “undermine justice and the interests of the United States”​.

Lawyers from across the political and professional spectrum warn that such actions will chill protected First Amendment activities and erode public access to legal representation.

“We’ve reached a constitutional crossroads,” Sheldon said. “If we allow government retribution against law firms based on who they represent, we dismantle the very foundation of equal justice under law.”

This brief follows similar filings in the Perkins Coie and WilmerHale cases and reflects growing concern in the legal community over executive orders targeting law firms based on their client portfolios.

Contact:

The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
100 M Street SE, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20003
(202) 546-9575
www.militarydefense.com

Legal Disclaimer:
This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Individuals or organizations seeking legal representation should contact a qualified attorney.

 

Testimonial: Client Praises Law Offices of David P. Sheldon for Skilled Advocacy in Federal Background Investigation Appeal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, D.C. – The Law Offices of David P. Sheldon has received high praise from a client following the firm’s effective legal representation in a challenging background investigation appeal involving a federal agency.

In a heartfelt testimonial, K.F. expressed deep appreciation for the firm’s legal guidance and tireless advocacy, noting the team’s professionalism and dedication throughout the case.

“Despite the agency’s reluctance to render a favorable decision, Mr. Sheldon’s team rolled up their sleeves and worked diligently on my case,” said K.F. “Ashleen exhibited meticulous attention to detail and extensive knowledge, ensuring the issue was resolved efficiently and on time.”

K.F. highlighted the firm’s ability to deliver results even in complex cases involving federal protocols. The client also praised the firm’s successful handling of an earlier adverse action affecting a family member, further demonstrating the legal team’s strong litigation skills and client commitment.

“Their skills as litigators are commendable,” K.F. added. “I highly recommend their services to anyone seeking prompt and practical assistance.”

About the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon
Located in Washington, D.C., the Law Offices of David P. Sheldon is nationally recognized for its excellence in military and federal employment law. The firm represents service members, federal employees, and civilians in courts-martial, security clearance appeals, medical and disability retirement cases, and other complex legal matters. Known for its tenacity and deep legal knowledge, the firm is committed to protecting the rights and careers of its clients.

To learn more, visit www.militarydefense.com or contact the office at (202) 546-9575.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or legal representation. Individuals facing legal or administrative challenges should consult with a qualified attorney who is experienced in military and Federal law to receive guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.