Judge postpones ruling on trial delay in Hasan case

FORT HOOD, Texas – In the case of U.S. vs. Maj. Nidal M. Hasan, Judge Col. Tara Osborn postponed ruling on defense’s motion for a continuance based on Hasan’s assertion that he needs time to develop the facts necessary to support his proffer for a “defense of others.”    

Hasan asserted his defense is based on his desire to protect the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the leadership of the Taliban to include Mullah Mohammad Omar.  However, he was unable to provide sufficient facts at the time of today’s hearing in support of this defense. 

The judge allowed him until noon June 5 to provide the necessary facts to support the need for a continuance. 

In addition, the judge ordered that the panel members arrive no earlier than 1 p.m. June 10.  The next Article 39a hearing is at noon June 5. 

The accused, Hasan, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

On June 5, satellite trucks should report to the Fort Hood Clarke Road Gate on West Highway 190 at 9:30 a.m. Truck registration and credentialing ends at 10:30 a.m.

NOTE: All others should check in at THE PARKING LOT OF THE 440 PLAZA ON FORT HOOD STREET, KILLEEN, TEXAS, FROM 9-10:30 a.m. All media should be prepared to show a U.S. driver's license with photo and an accredited press badge with photo.