§ 630.27 - Rewards.

(a) Receipt of an authorized communication, oral or written (for example DD Form 553 and entry into the NCIC) from a military or Federal law enforcement official or agency, requesting cooperation in the apprehension or delivery to military control of an absentee or deserter wanted by the Armed Forces constitutes the basis for a reward.

(b) A reward can be paid to an eligible person or agency who apprehends and detains an absentee or deserter until military authorities assume control. The finance and accounting officer designated by the MACOM commander pays the claimant. If two or more eligible persons or agencies are entitled to a reward, the payee may divide the payment among the participants. Payment for an apprehension effected jointly by an eligible and ineligible person or agency may be claimed by the eligible person or agency. Ineligible persons may not share in payments.

(c) Payment of a reward to persons or agencies is authorized as indicated below:

(1) A reward for apprehension and detention of an absentee or deserter until military authorities assume custody.

(2) A reward for apprehension of an absentee or deserter and subsequent delivery to a military installation with facilities to receive and process absentees and deserters.

(d) The reward may not exceed the amount specified in the current defense appropriation account for—

(1) The apprehension and detention of absentees or deserters until military authorities take custody.

(2) The apprehension and delivery to military authorities of absentees or deserters.

(e) A reward or reimbursement for expenses is not authorized for an Armed Service member. Federal government employees, a lawyer on whose advice an absentee or deserter surrenders, or when payment would violate public policy.