No reporters allowed at Lejeune hearing for Marine (murdered Iraqis)

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http://www.kentucky.com/mld/kentucky/news/special_packages/iraq/11442134.htm

No reporters allowed at Lejeune hearing for Marine

Associated Press


RALEIGH, N.C. - The Marine Corps will bar journalists from the courtroom at Camp Lejeune from next week's investigatory hearing in the case of a lieutenant charged with murdering two Iraqis.

Journalists will have to watch via closed-circuit television in a nearby building, said Lt. Barry Edwards, a spokesman for the 2nd Marine Division. Only courtroom personnel and members of Pantano's family will be allowed in the courtroom.

The decision to exclude journalists was made by the investigating officer who will preside over the hearing, Edwards said. He declined to name the officer.

In the past, Camp Lejeune has limited the number of reporters allowed in the tiny courtroom and provided close-circuit viewing.

The Article 32 hearing is scheduled to start Monday for 2nd Lt. Ilario Pantano, 33. He was charged with a count of premeditated murder for shooting two Iraqis during a search for a terrorist hideout last April 15. He could be sentenced to death if convicted.

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[gratuitous]

1. So, only the military and the accused's family will be in the room?

Gee, what makes me think this won't exactly be another "Judgment at Nuremburg" moment?