WASHINGTON – The Marines Corps says it has dismissed a reservist charged in a series of pre-dawn shootings at the Pentagon and other military buildings.
The Marines on Tuesday completed the process of separating 22-year-old Yonathan Melaku, a lance corporal, from the Corps. The Corps says Melaku did not contest the proceeding.
The Marines began the process this month after Melaku was charged with grand larceny in an unrelated case.
Melaku was arrested after he was caught trespassing inside Arlington National Cemetery after dark. Police say he had with him bomb-making materials.
The Marines say the shooting charges and Melaku's arrest at the cemetery had no bearing on their decision to kick him out.