It is possible this is the hook necessary to get the military involved. Clapper is an Air Force Lt. General who is on retired status. Although retired, he is still subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice and can be recalled to active duty for investigation and prosecution. If that is done, he would not have the same level of protection in a military proceeding as in a civilian court. For instance, the judge would be appointed by the Sec. of Defence, the jury would be composed of officers of equal or higher rank and a unanimous verdict is not required for conviction. If convicted, he could be stripped of all rank, prividledges and pay as well as being imprisioned.

Whether any of that happens, it is certainly time high ranking retired officers are reminded that responsibility goes along with benefits of rank.