Government files motion for Moussaoui trial date
WASHINGTON The government is eyeing the day after Memorial Day as a trial date for the only defendant charged with crimes related to Nine-Eleven. Zacarias Moussaoui (zak-uh-REE'-uhs moo-SOW'-ee) was indicted in December 2001. His case has been delayed by disputes over the death penalty and access to al-Qaida prisoners. An appeals court ruled earlier this month that Moussaoui can see parts of prisoners' statements, but he can't meet with the captives themselves. The ruling also allows the government to seek his execution.
Moussaoui admits loyalty to al-Qaida, but says he was training for another attack after Nine-Eleven. Three prisoners support that claim.
The French citizen is charged with participating in an al-Qaida conspiracy against the U-S. He was arrested on immigration violations a month before the attacks.
Today's government motion requests jury selection begin April 25th, with the trial's official start on May 31st, 2005.
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