Judge refuses to toss Blackwater charges - Marine Corps News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Marine Corps Times

Quick Links

Print Email
Bookmark and Share
http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2009/02/ap_blackwater_charges_021709/

Judge refuses to toss Blackwater charges


By Nedra Pickler - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Feb 17, 2009 6:05:35 EST

WASHINGTON — A federal judge has given a green light to the manslaughter case against five former Blackwater Worldwide security guards accused of spraying innocent Iraqis with machine-gun fire.

U.S. District Judge Ricardo Urbina on Tuesday denied two motions to dismiss the case.

The shooting in Baghdad in September 2007 left 17 Iraqis dead and another 20 wounded.

The former Blackwater guards argue they are not subject to U.S. civilian criminal laws because they were working overseas under a contract with the State Department.

A legal loophole says only contractors who work for or support the Defense Department can be prosecuted in U.S. courts for crimes committed overseas.

The judge said the issue should be heard at trial.

Videos You May Be Interested In

Leave a Comment





Contests and Promotions


promo Enter our 2012 Red Carpet Contest!
Predict who will get the statues on Hollywood's big night and win a $200 Fandango Gift Card!

Click Here To Enter.
promo Win Tactical Night Vision Goggles!
Enter to Win the Military Times Sweepstakes!

Click Here To Enter.

Free Stickers


promo Click here and we'll send you a FREE AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ, VIETNAM, or DESERT STORM sticker.

Marketplace

Mil-Mall


2011 Insider's Guide To Military Benefits
This handbook for military life includes essential information on pay and benefits, housing, education, health care and more.

Military Discounts


Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.

Shoplocal

  Shop Local
Local Online Deals
Find the best deals at your local stores.