Carter: U.S. tortures prisoners

WASHINGTON, Oct. 10 (UPI) -- Former President Jimmy Carter Wednesday said the United States tortures prisoners in violation of international law.

In an interview with CNN, Carter said the United States “has abandoned the basic principles of human rights.”

"I don't think it. I know it," he said.

The New York Times reported Oct. 4 that the Justice Department had issued secret memorandums in the past clearing the use of "harsh interrogation techniques,” including head-slapping, simulated drowning and frigid temperatures.

In response to the report, President George W. Bush said last week the “government does not torture people."

Carter Wednesday accused Bush of creating his own definition of human rights.

“But you can make your own definition of human rights and say we don't violate them," he said, "and you can make your own definition of torture and say we don't violate them."

A senior White House official said in response to Carter’s claim: "Our position is clear. We don't torture."