Volume of Trial Evidence Delays Moussaoui Case

A federal judge Friday delayed until Jan. 6 the trial of Zacarias Moussaoui, the only person charged in the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States, to give Moussaoui more time to review the huge amount of evidence.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema ruled that the volume and complexity of the evidence warranted a delay in the trial, which had been scheduled to begin with jury selection Sept. 30 and then with opening arguments Oct. 14.

“Although the public’s right to speedy trial is a legitimate concern, this court’s paramount concern is ensuring that the defendant receive a fair trial,” Brinkema wrote in a three-page ruling.

“The volume and complexity of the evidence in this prosecution fully support the defense request for a brief continuance of the trial date,” she added, saying her decision was based on the “fair administration of justice.”

The ruling came in response to separate requests by Moussaoui--who is not an attorney but is representing himself--and his court-appointed, standby lawyers who said Moussaoui needs more time to review the huge amount of information and conduct a thorough investigation.

Prosecutors had opposed the delay, arguing that the public interest in a speedy resolution of the case took precedence over Moussaoui’s lack of preparedness.