Judge Refuses to Bar Evidence Against Oklahoma Blast Suspects

DENVER — The judge in the Oklahoma City bombing case rejected all the defense motions to suppress evidence against Timothy J. McVeigh and Terry L. Nichols, saying Wednesday that their statements had not been coerced and agents had done nothing illegal during their investigation.

U.S. District Judge Richard P. Matsch’s ruling clears the way for prosecutors to use much of the physical evidence seized against the two men, including bomb-making ingredients taken from Nichols’ property in Herington, Kan., and McVeigh’s clothing, which contained material consistent with bomb residue.

Matsch also rejected defense claims that Nichols’ young wife, Marife, had been coerced into cooperating with the FBI and giving agents permission for searches.

The defense did win one round, when Matsch ruled that Terry Nichols’ statements could be used against him, but not against McVeigh.

McVeigh’s attorney, Stephen Jones, said he believes that gives them a good chance to separate the trials, something Nichols’ defense wants as well.

McVeigh and Nichols are charged with federal murder and conspiracy in the April 19, 1995, bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, which killed 168 people and injured more than 600 others. If convicted, they could face the death penalty.