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Terror suspect backs Court TV request to televise his trial

Moussaoui

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Lawyers for Zacarias Moussaoui filed a memorandum Friday urging television coverage of his trial on conspiracy charges, claiming it would provide "an additional layer of protection" for their client.

The Justice Department later Friday objected to such a move, citing security concerns and its desire to protect potential witnesses.

Moussaoui is the first person charged in connection with the September 11 terrorist attacks. His trial is slated to begin in mid-October.

Court TV has asked U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema to allow television coverage. A hearing on the request is scheduled for Wednesday morning.

A memorandum filed by Moussaoui's lawyers in support of Court TV's motion says in part, "Mr. Moussaoui recognizes that the American criminal justice system will be on display for the entire world as the trial of this action proceeds."

Live television coverage, the document says, "will insure that the entire world is able to watch the proceedings and will add an additional layer of protection to see that these proceedings are fairly conducted."

However, Moussaoui did not support Court TV's request to televise pre-trial proceedings, including motions and jury selection, the document says. He also would oppose taped rebroadcast of the trial if the jury is not sequestered, according to court papers. Jurors might give replayed testimony undue weight, the memorandum contends.

MORE STORIES October trial date set for terror suspect    VIDEO CNN's Deborah Feyerick reports on the Moussaoui arraignment on six conspiracy charges in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, Virginia (January 2) Play video (QuickTime, Real or Windows Media)     LEGAL RESOURCES Latest Legal News Law Library FindLaw Consumer Center Select a topic Bankruptcy Discrimination Divorce Estate Planning Landlord-Tenant Personal Injury Taxes

One of Moussaoui's attorneys, Frank Dunham, declined comment. His client has asked him not to discuss the case with the news media, Dunham said.

Court TV welcomed Moussaoui's support.

"As advocates of camera access for this trial, indeed, for all trials, we're always pleased when the parties involved do not object to our presence," said Henry Schleiff, chairman and CEO of Court TV.

"If the reason the defendant wants cameras is because he is afraid his trial will not be fair, we are confident that the camera will show that our system of justice operates fairly, regardless of the notoriety of the case. As Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis noted, 'Sunshine is the best disinfectant,'" Schleiff said.

The Justice Department is expected to strongly oppose televising the trial. It is expected to file a response late Friday.

Attorney General John Ashcroft has repeatedly said he is opposed to "providing a platform" for accused terrorists to express their views.

Legal observers say the government's position is likely to prevail. Under existing federal rules no federal criminal trial has ever been televised.