US Navy revises transfer policy for sailors under sexual assault investigation

Published Jul 27, 08:25 PM UTC

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The U.S. Navy has revised its policy on temporarily transferring sailors under investigation for sexual assault or stalking, requiring that they only be moved to shore commands. The change follows the murder of Petty Officer 3rd Class Angelina Resendiz by fellow sailor Jermiah Copeland in May 2025. Copeland was sentenced to 44 years in prison after pleading guilty to unpremeditated murder and other charges. Under the new policy, commanders must coordinate with NCIS, Sexual Assault Response Coordinators, and other relevant authorities before making such transfers. Shannon Hough of Shield of Sisters praised the change as a significant step, noting it could have prevented Copeland from being transferred to Resendiz's ship. Resendiz, a 21-year-old culinary specialist, disappeared from Naval Station Norfolk and was found murdered. Copeland also pleaded guilty to assaulting other victims.

Source

Task & PurposeWestern

Original headline: Navy changes transfer its policy in response to sailor’s death

Original language: EN-US

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Navy changes transfer policy in response to sailor's murder

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