Prosecutor Says Reservist Aided Enemy

[unhappycamper]

Prosecutor Says Reservist Aided Enemy
Associated Press | October 16, 2007


CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq - A prosecutor said Monday a former U.S. military police commander aided the enemy by letting top detainees make unmonitored cell phone calls at sites including the camp that held Saddam Hussein. But his attorney described the officer as only trying "to win the hearts and minds of Iraqis."

The sides faced off at the opening of the court-martial of Army reservist Lt. Col. William H. Steele, who oversaw lockups that included the area where Saddam spent his final days.

The proceedings are being closely watched as the first known prosecution for aiding the enemy in Iraq since the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. It has also gained attention for pretrial testimony that included allegations Steele approved the purchase of Cuban cigars for the toppled Iraqi dictator.

Steele, 52, of Prince George, Va., is accused of four charges that include allowing the prisoners to use a cell phone and giving special privileges to an Iraqi woman working as an interpreter.

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"This trial is not about aiding the enemy, but about a lieutenant colonel who wanted to ensure the humane treatment of civilians held at Camp Cropper," said Steele's defense attorney, Capt. Yolanda D. McCray. "He followed, to the best of his ability the guidance given to him ... he sought to win the hearts and minds of the Iraqis. He wanted to do his job."

She told the judge, Lt. Col. Timothy Grammel, that Steele tried to "improve America's image" among Iraqis and treat the detainees with respect and dignity.


Rest of article at: http://www.military.com/NewsContent/0,13319,152861,00.html