Notice: The uscode.house.gov website is currently operating in a temporary format. While the United States Code remains available from its authoritative source, some website features and functionality are temporarily unavailable.
The United States Code Online is current through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
Search & Browse Currency and Updating Classification Tables Popular Name Tool Positive Law Codification Editorial Reclassification Downloads
10 U.S.C. 855: Art. 55. Cruel and unusual punishments prohibitedText contains those laws in effect through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
From Title 10-ARMED FORCESCHAPTER 47-UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE

§855. Art. 55. Cruel and unusual punishments prohibited

Punishment by flogging, or by branding, marking, or tattooing on the body, or any other cruel or unusual punishment, may not be adjudged by any court-martial or inflicted upon any person subject to this chapter. The use of irons, single or double, except for the purpose of safe custody, is prohibited.

( Aug. 10, 1956, ch. 1041 , 70A Stat. 56 .)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised section

Source (U.S. Code)

Source (Statutes at Large)

855

50:636.

May 5, 1950, ch. 169, § 1 (Art. 55), 64 Stat. 126.

The word “may” is substituted for the word “shall”.