Army Releases Photo of Wikileaker Bradley Manning in Wig and Makeup (Corrected)

[Lee-Lee]

30. It all depends on how this was brought up

I think this was introduced into evidence by the defense, as they seem to be bringing his gender identity issues up as part of the defense.

If so, and his defense entered it into evidence, then there is no HIPPA protection because he, via his legal team, made it available. And since all evidence not deemed classified is public record, there it is.

I am also very bothered by the whole issue of his defense using his gender identity issues as a defense. In the midst of a fight for equality, if it really what we need for he defense to be "I couldn't help it, I am gay/transgendered/confused"? You can't have it both ways, and fight for equality but them claim because you are gay you should be given leniency or treated differently.

It also has some pretty ominous implications for those going for a security clearance. If he is using as his defense/excuse for the worst leaks in Army history "I was confused about my gender", they now have plenty of justification to use that against any applicant for a security clearance who may be gay or transgendered.

The whole deal of his defense trying to use his sexuality and gender issues as a defense for his leaks just rubs me the wrong way. I don't like the precedent it sets, nor what it says between the lines-"I shouldn't be trusted because I am gay".