Earlier today the Pentagon announced it would move the military trials for eight soldiers accused in connection with the death of Private Danny Chen to Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. Elected officials and community activists have urged the Army to hold the trials on U.S. soil, so Chen’s family can attend.
Chen, a Chinatown native, was found dead at an American military base in Afghanistan last fall, after apparently shooting himself in the head. An Army investigator has recommended courts martial for the soldiers. It is up to high-ranking military officers to make the final call. Previously there were indications the trials would be held in Afghanistan.
This afternoon, City Councilmember Margaret Chin applauded the decision, saying “we have demanded that the Army hold these trials on U.S. soil because that is the only way to ensure transparency and accountability in this case. I am confident that the charges against these eight individuals will be referred to trial and that Private Chen’s family will finally get to face those responsible for the death of their only son.”
Military officials have said Chen was taunted and physically abused by fellow soldiers.
