KXXV-TV News Channel 25 - Central Texas News and Weather for Waco, Temple, Killeen | Hasan's attorneys request government to hire experts

Hasan's attorneys request government to hire experts

By Stephanie Jacksis

FORT HOOD - Major Nidal Hasan, the army psychiatrist who is accused of killing 13 people and injuring dozens at Fort Hood in 2009, started his pre-trial hearing Thursday.  It was his first court appearance since the arraignment in July.

Hasan's attorneys argued excessive media coverage about the alleged shooter's Muslim religion and his possible ties to a terrorist, could create a biased jury.  They said only an expert would be able to analyze and determine how coverage would influence potential jurors.

Defense attorneys said they want media-analyst experts to look at the coverage and ensure a fair, unbiased conclusion can be reached. 

They closed by saying the American culture tends to link Muslims with violence, which they consider another potential blow to Hasan's reputation.

Hasan sat emotionless in his wheelchair, as the prosecuting attorney objected.

Prosecutors asked Judge Col. Gregory Gross to deny the requests.  They said Hasan's attorneys had no reason as to why they couldn't conduct the research themselves.  It was a "task performed by attorneys around the world every day."  

They also argued the expense of hiring experts should not have to come from government funding.

Prosecutors said it's the military judge's role to determine if there was any pre-trial prejudice, and hiring doctors to conduct the studies would only interfere.

Judge Gross has not yet made a decision on whether he'll allow outside experts to participate.

Shooting suspect Hasan is charged with 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 counts of attempted murder.  Leading defense attorney Kris Poppe said jurors should also consider life in prison and not just the death penalty if Hasan is convicted.

His trial is set to begin March 5, 2012.