US judge orders release of ‘Newburgh Four‘ on compassionate grounds, criticizes FBI’s informant tactics. Defendants called “hapless, easily manipulated” by Judge Colleen McMahon. Fourth individual not seeking release.
Case highlights FBI’s controversial use of informants in “terrorism” plots. Defense argues entrapment by informant. Ruling may impact similar cases.
Manley said that the judge’s ruling may also help in other similar cases in which a confidential informant was used to convince individuals of committing violent plots on US soil. “Maybe we can also use this decision – even though this case was unique – maybe we can use some aspects of this decision to hopefully help get other people out,” said Manley.