Ex-sailor convicted on spy charges

NEW HAVEN, Conn., March 5 (UPI) -- A federal jury in Connecticut Wednesday convicted an ex-U.S. Navy sailor of giving military secrets to suspected Islamic terrorists.

Hassan Abu-Jihaad, formerly known as Paul R. Hall, 32, of Phoenix, was found guilty of providing material support of terrorism and disclosing previously classified information relating to the national defense. Abu-Jihaad had been on trial in U.S. District Court in New Haven since Feb. 25.

"This verdict demonstrates loudly and clearly that we will seek to hold accountable anyone responsible for providing classified information to those who intend to use it in a manner against our national interests," U.S. Attorney Kevin O'Connor in a statement.

Prosecutors said that during a four- or five-month period in 2001 while stationed aboard the USS Benton, Abu-Jihaad provided classified information regarding the movements of the Benton's Navy battle group operating in the Mideast region to Azzam Publications, a London organization alleged to have ties to terrorist groups.

"In the post 9/11 world, our challenge is to identify, investigate and apprehend those who would compromise our national security in the name of violent jihadism," said Kenneth L. Wainstein, an assistant attorney general for national security. "Today's verdict demonstrates that our agents and prosecutors met that challenge with dedication and professionalism."