Chain of Command: The Road from 9/11 to Abu Ghraib Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 2, Part 3 Summary

Chapter 2, Part 3 Summary

Moussaoui was arrested near his flight school, three weeks before the September 11^th attacks, for making suspicious remarks. His home computer was not given a detailed search, despite the request of the F.B.I. agent who reported him. He was officially charged with overstaying his visa. He had been linked with known Al Qaeda operatives, but the evidence against him was sketchy at best. His condition and attitude deteriorated in prison. Some felt he should have been given a deal in order to entice him to testify. However, the Justice Department would not consider a 'no death' plea. Moussaoui became angrier and sought to represent himself in court. Lawyers had very limited access to him.

By the summer of 2002, Moussaoui had developed strange conspiracy theories. He became confused and was unable to understand the judge's instructions. He was denied access to captured Al Qaeda members. The trial was indefinitely delayed,...
(read more)