Soldier Deploys to Iraq Despite Sex Conviction

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma National Guard is looking into what actions to take against a Sayre soldier who deployed to Iraq from August 2008 to October 2009, despite being a convicted sex offender.

Johnathan James Sokoll, 27, pleaded guilty to a felony charge of Soliciting Sexual Conduct with a Minor in September 2007.

Lt. Col. Max Moss with the Oklahoma National Guard said Sokoll didn't inform his chain of command before deploying to Iraq with the 45th Fires Brigade. Moss said a background check wasn't performed because Sokoll didn't need a security clearance, and the National Guard normally relies on the soldier to tell their chain of command if they have had any arrests or convictions.

"Military officials are expeditiously reviewing the facts and appropriate regulations before determining what action to take in this matter," Moss said.

Moss said Sokoll was armed but did not come into contact with any children while in Iraq.