Nassau County D.A. Dismisses Charges Against Hempstead 15, Civil Case Continues

Nassau County D.A. has Dismissed Charges Against Hemsptead 15, while their civil case still makes it's way through the courts. Sgt Chiroux still faces prosecution for his refusal to redeploy and that case continues to develop as well.

Although a final hearing date has yet to be finalized, an "ACD" (Adjournment to Contemplate Dismissal) has been declared by the Nassau County District Attorney's Office. In another surprising twist, Sgt. Matthis Chiroux, in a press release, stated that

they have agreed to consolidate all of our court cases on one date (TBD) so that we and our supporters may be seen and heard together as we prepare to move forward now to federal court where our lawyer, Jonathan Moore is filing a civil case on behalf of Nick Morgan and others.

The organizers behind the Hempstead 15 credit independent and citizen media, and bloggers, for their success in this case, noting that no mainstream media were covering the event and proceedings. Sgt Chiroux, however, does have another battle to face. In May of 2008 Sgt. Chiroux declared his intention to fight his redeployment - this time to Iraq - and since the events at Hofstra, Chiroux had been sent a notification that the Army plans to prosecute him for his refusal. Chiroux reports confidence in the face of this new twist. While a hearing date has yet to be set, He states in his press release

with a good amount of support, I believe we can win this thing and prove once and for all that service members have a right to refuse participation in the occupation of Iraq.

Chrioux has also established a Facebook support group: "I support Matthis Chiroux's decision not to go to Iraq." The IVAW recognizes the battle ahead, but regarding this event in their Facebook release

What happened at Hofstra will forever remain with all in attendance and those who suffered most. May it be burned into America's conscience as well, but let it be a turning point. A moment in time from where clear divergence emerged.

Police and veterans from across this Nation have contacted us with their support and ultimately the same message: "We're tired of this!"

We'll present more developments and details on Sgt Morgan's civil case against the Nassau County PD and Sgt. Chiroux's case with the Army as we have them.