Hearing to Convene for Travis Airman Arraignment
1/9/2004 - SCOTT AFB, Ill. -- The initial session in the court-martial case involving Senior Airman Ahmad I. Al Halabi, called a 39a, will convene Jan. 13 at Travis Air Force Base, Calif. The military judge, Colonel Barbara G. Brand of the Central Circuit Judiciary, Randolph AFB, Texas, is expected to arraign Al Halabi during this session.
Arraignment signifies the beginning of the court-martial trial. The panel of military members selected to hear the case will not be present at this session. It will likely consist of qualification of counsel; an explanation of the accused's right to counsel; forum selection options (trial by military judge or by panel members); any challenges against the military judge; and arraignment. Arraignment will involve a reading of the charges and specifications to the accused and calling on the accused to plead. Al Halabi is not expected to enter a plea at this session.
News media will be allowed on Travis to view this proceeding via closed circuit television. No audio or video recording will be permitted. Attorneys for the defense and spokespersons representing the government may make statements to the media if they choose prior to and following the session. Opportunities to film/photograph participants as they arrive and/or depart the session may also be available. Due to security requirements related to base access, media interested in covering the proceedings must contact the 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs staff in advance (preferably at least 24 hours prior) at (707) 424-0134.
News media desiring access to the base to cover these proceedings will be credentialed and asked to agree to ground rules established to protect the security of the installation and proceedings and the accused's right to a fair trial.
The date of the proceedings before the court members, also to be held at Travis AFB, is tentatively set for Apr. 27. |
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Phone: 703-695-0640
Alt Phone: 703-697-4425
FAX: 703-614-7486
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