Iraqi courts beginning to function across country

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=14448&Itemid=21 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE RELEASE No. 20071005-21 Multi-National Division – North PAO Friday, 05 October 2007 TIKRIT, Iraq – A recently established Iraqi court tried three cases and further demonstrated a justice system that is capable and efficient for the citizens of Salah ad Din province, Oct. 2. The Salah ad Din Major Crimes Court, in operation for only several weeks, completed three cases this week, resulting in convictions for two murders and a kidnapping. Both criminals convicted of murder were sentenced to death while the kidnapping case resulted in a 15-year prison sentence. With each decision, the convicted persons can elect to appeal the decision. Their cases will be heard by an appeals court sitting in Baghdad. The Iraqi courts continue to demonstrate the Iraqi government’s commitment to a fair and impartial justice system and establishing rule of law. The self-sufficient court is operated by the Iraqi government.