Trial on terror charges starts for ex-sailor

[unhappycamper]

Hassan Abu-Jihaad
Former sailor served aboard destroyer Benfold


Trial on terror charges starts for ex-sailor
By John Christoffersen - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Feb 26, 2008 6:23:06 EST

NEW HAVEN, Conn. — The trial of a former Navy sailor on terrorism charges opened Monday with British investigators describing how they found details about the vulnerability of the sailor’s Navy battle group in the London home of an alleged terrorism supporter.

American prosecutors allege that the sailor, Hassan Abu-Jihaad, sent those details to suspected terrorism supporters in London.

Abu-Jihaad, 32, of Phoenix, has pleaded not guilty to charges he provided material support to terrorists with intent to kill U.S. citizens and disclosed classified information relating to the national defense. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years in prison. Abu-Jihaad’s attorneys say the government’s case is weak

The investigation that resulted in charges against Abu-Jihaad also led to the 2004 arrest of Babar Ahmad, a British computer specialist accused of running Web sites to raise money, appeal for fighters and provide equipment such as gas masks and night vision goggles for terrorists. Ahmad is awaiting extradition to the U.S.

Three British investigators testified Monday that agents who searched Ahmad’s parents’ house, where he had a room, in 2003 found a computer floppy disk.


Rest of article at: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/02/ap_abu_jihaad_022508/