UNITED STATES: Judge orders end to indefinite detention

Issue 

On March 1, federal Judge Henry Floyd ordered the federal government to release Jose Padilla within 45 days, or to charge him with a criminal offence. Padilla, a US citizen, was arrested in May 2002, when he arrived back to the US at Chicago airport. He was classified as an "enemy combatant", which US President George Bush declared meant he could be held indefinitely without charge Initially, Bush claimed that Padilla had intended to detonate a "dirty" bomb in a major US city. Then, the Justice Department changed the story to a gas-fuelled attack on an apartment building. However, no charges have been laid. The Justice Department intends to appeal against the decision by Floyd, who was one of Bush's judicial appointees.

From Green Left Weekly, March 9, 2005.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.