Old cases may mean new trials for Gitmo detainees

[kpete]

Source: Associated Press

Mar 16, 2:04 PM EDT

Old cases may mean new trials for Gitmo detainees

By DEVLIN BARRETT
Associated Press Writer


WASHINGTON (AP) -- Old terror case files are being dusted off as the Obama administration considers prosecuting high-profile Guantanamo Bay detainees in civilian courts, focusing on crimes allegedly committed before Sept. 11, 2001. It's a tactic that could allow the government to limit testimony about harsh, more recent interrogations and to avoid revealing sensitive intelligence about al-Qaida.

Some of the detainees, including alleged 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed, have criminal charges pending from alleged terror plots long before the 2001 attacks.

A senior Justice Department official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the government is still reviewing cases, said bringing such detainees to trial on prior charges is one of many possibilities being considered. No decisions have been made.

Reviving the long-dormant cases would pose some legal hurdles - particularly a defendant's right to a speedy trial, given how long Mohammed and others have been in U.S. custody.

Read more: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/G/GUANTANAMO_CRIMINAL_CASES?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

[Solly Mack]

1. Wow

I'm still speechless.

I took a few moments to share this with my husband. He said "You're shitting me?"

[EFerrari]

2. What?

I don't like what's coming out of Holder's Justice Department. The tone is wrong, the tactics send the wrong message. Wtf is he doing?

He needs to MOVE on clearing these cases IMMEDIATELY.

This is yet another DISGRACE to our country.

[Solly Mack]

3. kick

[No Elephants]

4. K & R. Another jaw dropper.