Air Force lawyer slams Yaede for attacks on Democratic opponent

A retired Air Force Judge Advocate today laced into Hamilton Mayor Kelly Yaede for a campaign mailer that attacks Democrat Jeff Martin for representing an Air Force Colonel in a sexual assault trial six years ago, when Martin was serving as captain in the JAG corps.

“As a former service member, I am personally offended at her attacks on a fellow military officer who upheld his duty to defend the Constitution at all times,” said Annie W. Morgan, who currently works as an attorney for the U.S. Department of Defense.  “Mayor Yaede should immediately apologize to her constituents and to the men and women who have worn the uniform in defense of our nation.”

Yaede has criticized Martin for “defending convicted rapists” as she seeks re-election to a third term as mayor.

Morgan says Yaede is slamming the integrity of the military by using the issue as a wedge against Martin in a political campaign.

“For Mayor Yaede to imply that a military criminal defendant is entitled to anything less than the most zealous defense devalues every citizen’s rights,” said Morgan, who was a law clerk for the DC Coalition Against Domestic Violence before entering the Air Force.

In a statement, Morgan also vouched for Martin.

“As someone who worked alongside Jeff Martin, I saw a military officer zealously fighting to protect his client’s rights.” Morgan said.  “Jeff Martin’s conduct was, as always, beyond reproach and I have no doubt that he will have a similarly powerful and positive impact as Hamilton’s next mayor.”