Maj Hasan’s asks for continuance; Judge Osborn outlines way ahead

UPDATE: On June 4, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 6 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 7 a.m.

All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 5:30-7 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.

FORT HOOD, Texas --  In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Hasan requested a three-month delay to his case, citing a need to change his defense to a “defense of others”, and a need to revise his witness list, despite his pro se motion filed earlier in which he stated he would need no delay.

Hasan once again asked to have Lt. Col. Christopher Martin relieved from the defense team, and requested only Lt. Col. Kris Poppe to remain at the table with him for panel selection. Osborn stood by her original ruling, with the exception of having Maj. Joseph Marcee to either sit in the gallery or at a seperate table next to the defense.

Judge Col. Tara Osborn ordered the government to ensure Hasan has an office and legal staff to assist him in his defense. Hasan is required to submit any voir dire changes for jury questions, as well as an instruction regarding his wear of a beard and a request for a three month continuance to the court by June 4.

Another Article 39a pre-trial hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. June 4. Panel selection remains scheduled to begin June 5.

The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.