posted on September 29, 2007 08:00:20 AM newJudge Orders Rep. John Murtha to Testify in Marine Sergeant Defamation Case
Fox News
Friday, September 28, 2007
WASHINGTON — A federal judge refused Friday to dismiss a defamation case against Rep. John P. Murtha and ordered the Pennsylvania Democrat to give a sworn deposition in the case.
A Marine Corps sergeant accuses the 16-term congressman of falsely accusing him of "cold-blooded murder and war crimes" in connection with the deaths of Iraqi civilians.
The Justice Department wanted the case dismissed because Murtha was acting in his official role as a lawmaker. Assistant U.S. Attorney John F. Henault said the comments were made as part of the debate over the war in Iraq.
U.S. District Judge Rosemary M. Collyer said the congressman might be right, but said she won't know for sure unless Murtha explains himself. She did not set a date for Murtha's testimony but said she would also require him to turn over documents related to his comments.
Collyer said she was troubled by the idea the lawmakers are immune from lawsuits regardless of what they say to advance their political careers.
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As EVERY American patriot should be. Just because they're 'law makers' doesn't mean they should be allowed to SLANDER our military WITHOUT backing up their statements with some sort of proof.
His previous 'status' gave his 'word' a ton of credibility with some who quoted, over and over his statements. Now, let's see if he was just blowing 'hot angry air' or IF he can back up smearing our troops.
I, for one, am EXTREMELY glad to hear he'll be asked for PROOF. Might just keep other politicians from doing the same, IF they know they'll be held to account.
"While the democratic party complains about everything THIS President does to protect our Nation": "What would a Democrat president have done at that point?"
"Apparently, the answer is: Sit back and wait for the next terrorist attack."
