Uniform Code of Military Justice
Article 126. Cruelty or Maltreatment of a Subordinate.
(a) A person subject to this Code who, while exercising military authority over another person, knowingly subjects that person to cruelty, oppression, abusive punishment, degrading treatment, or maltreatment is guilty under this Article.
(b) The conduct must be objectively abusive or oppressive in light of the military relationship and circumstances. Lawful correction, training, discipline, counseling, or command action reasonably related to a legitimate military purpose does not constitute maltreatment.
(c) A person guilty under this Article shall be punished as a court-martial may direct.