MARINE CASE UPDATE 09/08/06

UNCLAS MANILA 003770 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL MARR KCRM CASC RP SUBJECT: MARINE CASE UPDATE 09/08/06 REF: MANILA 3474 AND PREVIOUS ¶1. Testimony in the trial of the four Marines accused of raping a Filipino woman is expected to resume Monday, September 11 when the Defense commences its case. They have indicated that they will call approximately six witnesses including the four Marines themselves, and another Marine, LCpl Justin Bamberger, who is already in country. The Defense has also informed the Embassy that they will subpoena NCIS for the clothes LCpl Smith was wearing the night of the alleged incident. They will also probably request that an NCIS official present the clothing in direct testimony. Embassy will report when subpoena is received. ¶2. On September 2, the International Herald Tribune Asia profiled longtime Philippine resident and friend to the Embassy, Father James Reuter, who is also a spiritual advisor to the Marines. In the story, Father Reuter publicly proclaimed the innocence of LCpl Smith and the others, saying "I don't think they're guilty...not a bit." ¶3. 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 will 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