Improper firearm handling can lead to court-martial conviction, confinement Published Aug. 7, 2009 By Malmstrom Legal Office MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Airman Basic Laquavius D. Wortherly was convicted at a special court-martial of two specifications of dereliction of duty and one specification of disorderly conduct earlier this month. Airman Wortherly pleaded guilty to all counts and was sentenced to three months of confinement, three months of hard labor without confinement, restriction for two months and forfeiture of $466 pay per month for six months. Airman Wortherly was charged with these offenses after carrying a concealed weapon into a crowded off-base establishment and brandishing it during an argument with another Airman. While investigating the crime, investigators learned that Airman Wortherly did not have a concealed weapon permit, and had been storing his firearm and ammunition in his vehicle on base in violation of the base's firearms storage requirements. Airman Wortherly's conduct was both criminal and reckless, and Airmen must always properly handle and store personal firearms to ensure they do not end up in a similar position. Failure to follow Air Force and local requirements with regard to firearms may result in a federal conviction, incarceration and possibly a punitive discharge from the Air Force.