WACO, Texas (AP) – The Fort Campbell soldier accused of plotting to bomb Fort Hood troops is wearing a mask during jury selection at his federal trial -- the first time his face has been covered in court.
Pfc. Naser Jason Abdo is accused of biting through his lip and spitting blood on authorities escorting him after a recent hearing. He's also accused of spitting blood on a jailer.
In court Monday, several U.S. marshals standing near Abdo wore protective glasses. Abdo wore an oval mask covering his nose and mouth.
McLennan County Sheriff Larry Lynch said he can't comment on why Abdo is wearing a mask. A gag order prevents attorneys from discussing the case publicly.
Abdo is accused of planning to bomb a Killeen restaurant filled with Fort Hood soldiers last summer.
Abdo was AWOL from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, when he was arrested last July at a Killeen motel near the Texas Army post.
Abdo faces up to life in prison if convicted of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and eight other charges.
Past Stories:
- April 6, 2012: Lawyers: Throw Out Fort Hood Bomb Plot Confession
- Jan. 10, 2012: Trial For Soldier In Fort Hood Bomb Plot Delayed
- Dec. 22, 2011: Soldier Charged In Fort Hood Bomb Plot Gets Lawyer
- Nov. 17, 2011: Soldier Pleads Not Guilty To Bomb Plot Charges
- Nov. 9, 2011: New Charges Against Soldier In Fort Hood Bomb Plot
- Aug. 9, 2011: AWOL Soldier Indicted In Fort Hood Bomb Plot
- Aug. 4, 2011: Grand Jury To Hear Case Of Ft. Hood Plot Suspect
- July 30, 2011: Gun Shop Clerk Tipped Police to AWOL Soldier
- July 29, 2011: AWOL Soldier Defiant In 1st Court Appearance
- July 28, 2011: Police: AWOL Soldier Was Close To Fort Hood Attack
- July 20, 2011: Army: Muslim Soldier Opposed To War Is AWOL
- June 15, 2011: Muslim Soldier Opposed To War Faces Porn Charge
- Aug. 23, 2010: Muslim Soldier Claims To Be Conscientious Objector
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
