Investigators focus on 3 Blackwater guards

[unhappycamper]

Investigators focus on 3 Blackwater guards
By Matt Apuzzo and Lara Jakes Jordan - The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Dec 7, 2007 18:25:06 EST

Federal prosecutors investigating the shooting deaths of 17 Iraqi civilians have narrowed their focus on as few as three Blackwater Worldwide bodyguards and have given others immunity for cooperating in the case, The Associated Press has learned.

New information about the deadly Sept. 16 incident, which has strained relations between the U.S. and Iraq, reflects progress by the government to prosecute Blackwater guards for the shooting in Baghdad’s Nisoor Square.

A final decision on whether to prosecute the guards — and how many — may still be months away. But two weeks into a federal grand jury investigation, people close to the case told AP that authorities have focused the number who could face charges to about three of the dozen or more guards on the security detail.

Despite the progress, the people who discussed the case noted concerns about testimony given by the four Blackwater guards who have so far appeared in front of the secret panel. Details were discussed on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the information.

The concerns stem, in part at least, from the fact that one defense attorney and law firm represent as many as 10 guards, raising worries that their stories could be coordinated.


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2007/12/ap_blackwater_investigation_071207/