Cablegate: Marine Case Update 08/18/06

VZCZCXRO4039
OO RUEHNH
DE RUEHML #3474 2300823
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
O 180823Z AUG 06
FM AMEMBASSY MANILA
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC IMMEDIATE 2560
INFO RUEHNH/AMCONSUL NAHA IMMEDIATE 0031
RHHMUNA/CDRUSPACOM HONOLULU HI IMMEDIATE
RUEKJCS/JOINT STAFF WASHINGTON DC IMMEDIATE
RUEKJCS/SECDEF WASHDC//OSD/ISA/AP// IMMEDIATE

UNCLAS MANILA 003474

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR EAP/MTS
USPACOM ALSO FOR FPA HUSO
OSD/ISA/AP (LAWLESS/TOOLAN/BAILEY)
JS/J5 (WILKES/ROBINSON/CLEMMONS)

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL MARR KCRM CASC RP
SUBJECT: MARINE CASE UPDATE 08/18/06

REF: MANILA 3285 AND PREVIOUS

1. The trial of the four Marines accused of raping a
Filipino woman resumed briefly the week of August 14 with
confirmation from the Prosecution's expert DNA witness that
the DNA sample taken from LCpl Daniel Smith matches that of
the DNA sample found on the complainant's underwear. The
Prosecution formally rested its case on August 17. The
Defense will commence its case on September 11, and is
expected to call approximately six witnesses, including the
four Marines themselves. The actual legal status of Starex
van driver Timoteo Soriano as a co-defendant in this case is
still unresolved.

2. Mission continues to provide security, citizen services,
and other support to the defendants. Personnel from III MEF,
JUSMAG, the Regional Security Office (RSO), and the Consular
Section continue to attend all court sessions. RSO remains
pleased with the extent and quality of security support
provided by the mayor's office and police department. The
Consular Section continues to respond to family member
inquiries.

Jones

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