WASHINGTON, May 21 (UPI) -- The U.S. Justice Department indicated Friday evening it had joined the growing investigation into alleged abuse of Iraqi detainees.
While the Pentagon is investigating the alleged actions of military personnel, an investigation by the department and the FBI would be limited to civilian personnel, specifically civilian contractors who had contact with the detainees.
Justice Department spokesman Mark Corallo announced the new development in a short statement.
"Yesterday (Thursday), the Department of Justice received a referral from the Department of Defense regarding a civilian contractor in Iraq, and opened an investigation into the matter," Corallo said. "We remain committed to taking all appropriate action within our jurisdiction regarding allegations of mistreatment of Iraqi prisoners. The department will have no further comment at this time."
At least six U.S. soldiers are facing courts-martial in Baghdad in the abuse investigation. One other soldier has pleaded guilty and has been sentenced to one year's confinement, demotion and a discharge for bad conduct.
