Trump’s comments a central issue in Bergdahl hearing
Defense: Remarks keep defendant from getting fair sentence
President Trump’s sharp criticism of Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl during his campaign as a “traitor” was called into question Monday at the sentencing hearing for the soldier, who faces charges of deserting his post in Afghanistan before being captured by Taliban militants.
The judge, Army Col. Jeffery Nance, heard a last-minute defense motion to dismiss the case because Trump’s comments prevent Bergdahl from getting a fair sentence.
Nance allowed the attorneys to question him about whether he was swayed by Trump’s comments, according to the Associated Press.
“I don’t have any doubt whatsoever that I can be fair and impartial in the sentencing in this matter,” Nance said during the hearing at Fort Bragg, N.C. He expressed concerns, however, about the impact those comments would have on public perceptions.
On the campaign trail, Trump called Bergdahl a “dirty rotten traitor.” Asked last week about those comments, Trump said, “I think people have heard my comments in the past.”
The White House later issued a statement that highlighted the importance of the integrity and independence of the military justice system, though it did not mention Bergdahl’s name.
Bergdahl’s case has generated controversy since the Obama administration reached a deal in 2014 to release the soldier in exchange for five Taliban militants
On the campaign trail, Trump called Bergdahl a “dirty rotten traitor.” Asked last week about those comments, Trump said, “I think people have heard my comments in the past.”
held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The five militants were turned over to Qatar.
After leaving his post in 2009, Bergdahl was captured and held by Taliban-linked militants for five years.
Bergdahl, 31, pleaded guilty this month to desertion and misbehavior before the enemy and faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The plea did not include an agreement to limit his sentence.
The judge said the sentencing hearing would resume Wednesday.