US Navy Officer Lt. Ridge Alkonis Returns: US Navy officer Lt. Ridge Alkonis, previously serving in Japan, has been transferred to a federal prison in Los Angeles after his return to the United States. Alkonis was initially sentenced to three years in a Japanese prison for negligent driving resulting in the death of two individuals in May 2021.
Despite his appeal being denied in July 2022, his family has contested the charges, arguing that he was ill, not negligent. The family has pushed for his transfer under the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence in the US. This move follows direct engagement by Vice President Kamala Harris and national security adviser Jake Sullivan, signaling a diplomatic effort to address the case.
The US parole commission will now review Alkonis’ case, considering factors such as his military record and whether he was a model prisoner. The process is expected to take several months, during which the commission will assess his original sentence in Japan and determine the appropriate course of action in the US. The Alkonis family has expressed gratitude for the US government’s efforts in facilitating the transfer and hopes for a swift resolution, advocating for Alkonis’ release during the holiday season.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What did Lt Ridge alkonis do?
CNN has reported that Lt. Ridge Alkonis, a US Navy officer who was imprisoned in Japan for causing the death of two individuals due to negligent driving, has been released from a US prison after being granted parole. The officer’s family confirmed the news, but no further details were provided.
How long does it take to become a lieutenant commander in the navy?
Promotions are usually granted every six years, unless you are selected early. At the six-year mark, you will be promoted to Lieutenant Commander (LCDR), followed by Commander (CDR) at 12 years, and Captain (CAPT) at 18 years.