A US Navy senior chief, Grisel Marrero, was demoted for setting up an illegal WiFi network on the USS Manchester. Marrero, along with other chiefs, conspired to install the network during a deployment in 2023, using a Starlink dish named “STINKY”. This network, intended for personal use, allowed the chiefs to watch TV, stream movies, and check sports scores – privileges not available to the majority of sailors. The $1,000 monthly cost of the Starlink service was charged to a leadership association debit card.
The network’s existence was discovered by a civilian installer working on an authorized satellite communication system. Marrero, who was the network administrator, had initially denied its existence and even altered data usage records. Eventually, she admitted to setting up the network, but claimed it was only used while the ship was in port. However, internal investigations revealed that the chiefs used the network during deployments, raising concerns about potential security breaches.
The unauthorized network posed significant risks to the crew, the ship, and the Navy, according to the investigation. Prosecutors argued that Marrero failed to prevent the USS Manchester from being exposed to operational security risks, a duty she was obligated to fulfill.
Marrero was found guilty of dereliction of duty and providing false official statements to commanders. She was demoted from senior chief petty officer to chief petty officer. Other sailors involved in the unauthorized WiFi network were also disciplined, but the specifics of their punishments were not disclosed. This incident highlights the potential consequences of using unauthorized wireless networks on military vessels, which can compromise security and jeopardize mission effectiveness.
