Accused mastermind of 9/11 attacks faces judge

[June 05, 2008]  GUANTANAMO BAY NAVAL BASE, Cuba (AP) -- The accused mastermind of the Sept. 11 terror attacks is facing a military judge in his long-awaited first public appearance before a war-crimes tribunal.

Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four alleged co-conspirators have taken their seats at defense tables before Judge Ralph Kohlmann, a Marine colonel.

Their arraignment Thursday is the highest-profile test yet of the controversial tribunal system, which is being challenged in court. It comes seven years after the attacks. All five face the death penalty if convicted.

[Associated Press; By ANDREW O. SELSKY]

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