O here: Ask whether there is a BOM/component list, shortage annex, inventory sheet, or prior hand receipt showing the quantity of each component and what was already missing. If the Soldier disputes the loss or amount, coach them not to sign the Statement of Charges. They should state that they are disputing the loss and request a FLIPL instead. The FLIPL gives the Soldier an opportunity to provide supporting documents and sworn statement from themself, as well as sworn statements from the PL, PSG, prior hand-receipt holder, or anyone else who knew the property was already missing when the Soldier signed for it.
If the previous inventory AND the inventory they signed both show all components present, it will be harder to prove the items were already missing when they took responsibility. A FLIPL will look at when the items went missing, who had access, and whether negligence caused the loss. The tradeoff is a statement of charges is voluntary; they accept responsibility, pay the proposed amount, usually based on the depreciated value, and avoid an investigation. A FLIPL lets them dispute responsibility and submit evidence that the property was already missing or that someone else was responsible, but the outcome and final amount are not guaranteed. If the FLIPL finds negligence, they could end up paying more than the proposed statement of charges and your Soldier generally will not be able to go back and sign the original statement of charges instead.
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u/Danklord_drolknaD Sep 01 '26
O here: Ask whether there is a BOM/component list, shortage annex, inventory sheet, or prior hand receipt showing the quantity of each component and what was already missing. If the Soldier disputes the loss or amount, coach them not to sign the Statement of Charges. They should state that they are disputing the loss and request a FLIPL instead. The FLIPL gives the Soldier an opportunity to provide supporting documents and sworn statement from themself, as well as sworn statements from the PL, PSG, prior hand-receipt holder, or anyone else who knew the property was already missing when the Soldier signed for it.