The Washington Times said the information Lt. Col. Allen West obtained from the prisoner, an Iraqi policeman, prevented a planned attack on U.S. troops in a northern town.

West said he exerted psychological pressure, but no physical abuse.

But the Army is taking a dim view of the interrogation tactic. An Army official at the Pentagon confirmed to The Washington Times West has been charged with one count of aggravated assault. A military source said an Article 32 hearing has been scheduled in Iraq that could lead to the Army court-martialing West and sending him to prison for a maximum term of eight years.

West said the 4th Infantry's staff judge advocate, the unit's prosecutor, is offering him two choices -- resign short of gaining retirement benefits or face court-martial.