Holder, Gates oppose Senate attempts to block civilian trials for Gitmo detainees

Associated Press

Last update: November 3, 2009 - 9:57 AM

WASHINGTON - The defense secretary and attorney general are opposing an attempt to prohibit Guantanamo detainees from having civilian trials in the United States.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Attorney General Eric Holder said in an Oct. 30 letter that they want the option of having trials by military commission or civilian courts.

A measure sponsored by Republican Sens. Lindsey Graham and John McCain and Independent Joe Lieberman would block the Justice Department from spending any funds to prosecute detainees from the Cuban island jail.

More than 200 prisoners remain in the jail, which is supposed to be closed next year.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The defense secretary and attorney general are opposing an attempt to prohibit Guantanamo detainees from having civilian trials in the United States.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Attorney General Eric Holder said in an Oct. 30 letter that they want the option of having trials by military commission or civilian courts.

A measure sponsored by Republican Sens. Lindsay Graham and John McCain and Independent Joe Lieberman would block the Justice Department from spending any funds to prosecute detainees from the Cuban island jail.

More than 200 prisoners remain in the jail, which is supposed to be closed next year.

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