Media restrictions imposed in Iraq rape and murder case

[NNN0LHI]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/world/4088784.html

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The media and public will be barred from witnessing the testimony of Iraqis in a hearing for U.S. Army soldiers accused of raping and murdering an Iraqi teenager, an Army commander has ruled.

The restriction was issued Monday after an appeal by the trial counsel to protect the witnesses, who fear they could be perceived as aiding U.S. forces and be targeted by insurgents. A copy of the order was seen Wednesday.

The Army is scheduled later this month to hold an Article 32 hearing, which is similar to a grand jury proceeding in which evidence of guilt is adjudged to see if a trial is merited. If the case goes to trial, the murder suspects could face the death penalty.

The hearing will be for five soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division, four of whom are accused of raping and murdering 14-year-old Abeer al-Janabi near the town of Mahmoudiya on March 12. The fifth is accused of failing to report the crime.

[marmar]

1. Now there's a shock....

In the most secrecy-shrouded administration in history.