ARSON AND SABOTAGE.

In summary of this discussion it is noted that sabotage is a real threat and that arson is a favorite tool of the saboteur. Further, that cooperation between civilian and military investigative authorities is firmly established in most areas, however, there is room for expansion of this cooperation as concerns arson through better exchange of information relative to suspects and those found guilty of fire setting. A central point of exchange or clearing house for this information would serve a highly useful purpose. Federal and military laws concerned with arson were discussed, as were federal laws applicable to sabotage and espionage during time of war and those applicable during peace. A recent article in the newspapers stated that Attorney General Brownell has asked Congress to allow that peace time spies be given capital punishment. He stated, "I fail to perceive any justification for such a distinction inasmuch as the essence of this crime is the intent to breach the national security, which security is of paramount importance whether in war or peace." The request for a change in the law includes power to prosecute for espionage activities committed any time in the past which would remove the present ten year statute of limitation. The Uniform Code of Military Justice was discussed with particular emphasis on the requirements in Article 31 to properly warn suspects who may be subject to the Code. On the possibility that the discussion concerning the warning not be entirely clear or cause confusion, it is pointed out that when military personnel are in the hands of civil or federal authorities for violations under these jurisdictions, they are subject to prosecution under state or federal laws, and the warning under Article 31 of the Code would not be applicable. However, it is advised that those directly connected with the military should review the Uniform Code of Military Justice with your legal officers to assure proper conformance with Article 31... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]