The article focuses on the tribulations of David C. Headley, an alleged planner of the Mumbai attacks. The American confessed to helping in planning the alleged deadly 2008 terror attacks in Mumbai. The terror attacks pose dire consequences to the affected town or country. By engaging in terrorist activities, Mr. Headley subjects himself to devastating consequences. After the judges hands him 35 years in prison, it appears as if the federal prosecutors’ wish had happened. The act falls under the category of very heinous crimes according to American laws. According to the article, there were a clear indication that the judge passed the judgment that appeared to be less harsh after thorough consultations between the judge and lawyers representing the government as well as the defense team. The court documents indicated that the 52-year-old David C. Headley attended a training camp called Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan. He would plead guilty to charges later.
Thesis Statement
Authorities are yet to explain why it took too long to arrest the American after he conspired in the attack of Mumbai. Explanation to the judge’s decision to change his mind on the previous ruling is unconvincing and sham-like. Allegations are that the lawyers representing the government and the prosecution team had deliberated on the previous ruling (life sentence) before settling on a 35-year jail term.
Critical analysis
By attending military training in Lashkar-e-Taiba training, Mr. Headley got three years training whereby he acquired skills that he would use in terrorist attacks. Mr. Headley got involved in raids, in Mumbai. This had taken place in November 2008 where 163 people lost their lives six of these were Americans. In these raids, nine gunmen died too. After his arrest, he pleaded guilty to 12 counts of conspiracy charges and involvement in terrorist activities, in India. He admitted to involvement in a terrorist plot to a Danish newspaper, which was publishing cartoons of Prophet Muhammad. With three years training in a terrorist camp, it is safe to say that Mr. Headley is a dangerous man.
His co-operation with the relevant authorities was a crucial contribution to his part. His co-operation led to the arrest of seven other individuals involved to terrorist activities. Tahawwur Rana- a Chicago businessperson-also faced the law due to Mr. Headley’s co-operation. Mr. Tahawwur Rana was a co-defendant of Mr. Headley. A court of law later sentenced him to 14 years in prison.
The decision to sentence Mr. Headley for 35 years instead of a life sentence has justification. This is because of the information that he presented. This information proved crucial and vital. Without this information, the police would not have arrested Mr. Tahawwur Rana and the other seven individuals too. His cooperation serves as an exchange to a reduced sentence. This also makes him escape a death penalty or even an extradition to Denmark, India or Pakistan. Judge Harry D. Leinenweber of Federal District Court of the Federal District Court had a justification in reducing the sentence.
Conclusion
Mr. Headley is the focus and one of the culprits who largely contributed to the Mumbai attack, in India. It is ridiculous after it emerged the FBI and other US agencies overlooked at warnings from the suspect’s wife as well as associates concerning his terrorist activities in 2001 and 2002. The plea arrangements as former US Attorney Patrick alleged, 12 conspiracy charges and late arrest notwithstanding were simply unrealistic.
References
Steven Yaccino . Planner of Mumbai Attacks Is Given a 35-Year Sentence, CHICAGO — David C. Headley. January 24, 2013
