WikiLeaks on Manning verdict: 'Extremism'

[Omaha Steve]

Source: AP-Excite

By CALVIN WOODWARD

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange branded Pfc. Bradley Manning's espionage conviction Tuesday an episode of "national security extremism" while other supporters expressed relief that he was acquitted of the most serious charge. Among Manning's critics, House intelligence officials said justice was served.

From the courtroom to world capitals, people absorbed the meaning of a verdict that cleared the soldier of a charge of aiding the enemy, which would have carried a potential life sentence, but convicted him on other counts that, together, could also mean a life behind bars. Manning faces up to 136 years in prison if given maximum penalties in a sentencing hearing that starts Wednesday.

In Washington, the Republican and Democratic leaders of the House Intelligence Committee joined in a statement declaring "justice has been served today."

"Manning harmed our national security, violated the public's trust, and now stands convicted of multiple serious crimes," said Rep. Mike Rogers of Michigan, chairman of the House Intelligence committee, and Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger of Maryland, the panel's top Democrat.

FULL story at link.


Read more: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20130730/DA7S3A581.html

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Supporters of Army Pfc. Bradley Manning flash peace signs outside of a courthouse in Fort Meade, Md., Tuesday, July 30, 2013, after Manning receiving a verdict in his court martial. Manning was acquitted of aiding the enemy, the most serious charge he face, but was convicted of espionage, theft and other charges, more than three years after he spilled secrets to WikiLeaks. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

[PDJane]

1. What I want to see is if the written decision gives any hope that this won't be used again

on whistleblowers, or whether she feels that the government didn't prove its case.

I suspect the latter.