FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: June 18, 2013 4:12:42 PM CDT
Stanby counsel role defined, judge sets new trial dates for Major Hasan case
FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn indicated that she had received a supplemental brief from Hasan concerning the “defense of others” defense. Osborn said that she considered the matters raised but declined to modify her ruling from the June 14 session where she ruled that the defense was not valid and she will not allow Hasan to present evidence or argument on such a defense.
Furthermore, Osborn did not make a ruling regarding the motion for a continuance since Hasan chose to withdraw the motion.
The judge also issued a written order defining the roles and responsibilities of standby counsel. The standby counsel are required to provide Hasan with all unclassified discovery materials, attend all sessions of court, be prepared to assume the role of defense counsel should the court order it or should Hasan request it. They also are to assist Hasan with legal research and procedural matters should he request their assistance. Both Lt. Col. Kris Poppe and Maj. Joseph Marcee will remain at the table with Hasan and Lt. Col. Christopher Martin will remain behind the bar.
Additionally, Osborn asked Hasan’s standby counsel if they wanted to continue with their motion for withdrawal. Poppe stated that they would withdraw their motion based on her ruling on the “defense of others” defense and her written order defining standby counsel’s role in the case.
Osborn also ordered Hasan to inform her of any prior motions that he wished her to reconsider and to file any additional motions by June 21.
Panel selection will start on July 9 and opening statements will begin not earlier than Aug. 6.
Finally, Osborn discussed a defense motion regarding security. She indicated that she had reviewed and sealed the security plans concerning the trial. She specifically found that there was no specific threat towards any specific person or category of persons. She also said that she ordered Fort Hood officials to inform her immediately if they became aware of a specific threat towards any specific person or category of persons.
The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty.
For more information contact:
Fort Hood Public Affairs Office
www.forthoodpresscenter.com
(254) 286-5139
1001 761st Tank Battalion Ave
Suite W105
Fort Hood, TX 76544
[email protected]
www.forthoodpresscenter.com
(254) 286-5139
1001 761st Tank Battalion Ave
Suite W105
Fort Hood, TX 76544
[email protected]