Accused U.S. soldiers refuse to testify

[NNN0LHI]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/world/4092512.html

TIKRIT, Iraq — Four U.S. soldiers accused of murdering Iraqi detainees refused to testify Thursday at a military hearing, where witnesses described how one of the victims spat blood as he lay dying and another was covered in brain matter.

The four invoked their right not to testify for fear of incriminating themselves at the hearing to determine if they should be court-martialed for the May 9 shooting deaths. Instead, their attorneys submitted sworn statements and rested their case on the third day of the hearing.

The defendants _ Pfc. Corey R. Clagett, Spc. William B. Hunsaker, Staff Sgt. Raymond L. Girouard and Spc. Juston R. Graber _ initially said the three detainees were killed because they tried to escape, but military prosecutors have said they were freed before being shot.

The shootings have raised questions about the Army's rules of engagement during combat and dealt another blow to the reputation of U.S. soldiers, fueling anger against the coalition presence. The U.S. military's conduct has also come under criticism from international human rights groups. snip

The first three are also accused of obstruction of justice for allegedly threatening to kill Pfc. Bradley Mason, the prosecution's leading witness, who testified Wednesday.

[TheCowsCameHome]

1. Will one of them ultimately implicate the others?

[NNN0LHI]

2. One soldier has testified that he was threatened with death if he talked

>>>The first three are also accused of obstruction of justice for allegedly threatening to kill Pfc. Bradley Mason, the prosecution's leading witness, who testified Wednesday.<<<

[saigon68]

4. Thugs in uniform

They have to be brutal to "win"

What ever the Fuck that means

[ComerPerro]

3. can't they be imprisoned for that?

Oh, right, soldiers are above all laws now.

Anyone who tries to bring soldiers to justice for crimes they commit "isn't supporting the troops"

[qazplm]

5. imprisoned for what exactly?

Asserting their fifth amendment rights??

If found guilty of premed murder, they will get mandatory minimum of life in prison.

[Kingshakabobo]

6. I'm surprised they have a 5th amendment right under the UCMJ..

I wonder how much difference there is??