Blackwater guards found guilty in 2007 Iraq ´massacre´

By
AFP
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Blackwater guards found guilty in 2007 Iraq ´massacre´
WASHINGTON: Four former Blackwater security guards were found guilty Wednesday for their roles in a notorious 2007 mass shooting in Baghdad that left at least 14 civilians dead and deepened resentment of America´s involvement in Iraq.

The four ex-employees of the US private security firm were convicted on an array of charges ranging from first degree murder to voluntary manslaughter.

Their convictions followed a two-month trial that heard how they opened fire with sniper rifles, machine guns and grenade launchers in Baghdad´s bustling Nisour Square as they escorted a diplomatic convoy.

The federal court jury in Washington found Nicholas Slatten guilty of first-degree murder.

Paul Slough, Evan Liberty and Dustin Heard were found guilty of voluntary manslaughter.

A mistrial was declared in relation to certain counts against Heard. "This verdict is a resounding affirmation of the commitment of the American people to the rule of law, even in times of war," US Attorney Ronald Machen said in a statement.

"Seven years ago, these Blackwater contractors unleashed powerful sniper fire, machine guns, and grenade launchers on innocent men, women, and children," he said.