The United States vs. Philip K.

Sweet

G.R. No.448, September 20, 1901

Ladd, J.:

Facts

Philip K. Sweet, an employee of United States military in the Philippines, committed an offense against a
prisoner of war wherein he was charged with the crime of physical injuries. The appellant claimed that
he was acting in the line of duty when the alleged offense was committed and the fact that he was an
employee of the US military deprive the court below of its jurisdiction.

Issue

Whether or not our civil courts have jurisdiction over the case.

Ruling

Yes. The jurisdiction of the civil tribunals is unaffected by the military or other special character of the
person brought before them for trial. The appellant’s claim that the acts were performed by him in the
execution of the orders of his military superiors, may, if true, be available as his defense in the trial, but
cannot affect the right of the civil court to take jurisdiction of the case.