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Monday, Mar 26, 2012 10:00 PM UTC

Feds defend charges in Michigan militia case

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Topics: From the Wires,

Feds defend charges in Michigan militia caseFILE - This file combo of eight photos provided by the U.S. Marshals Service on Monday March 29, 2010 shows, from top left, David Brian Stone Sr., 44, of Clayton, Mich,; David Brian Stone Jr. of Adrian, Mich,; Jacob Ward, 33, of Huron, Ohio; Tina Mae Stone and bottom row from left, Michael David Meeks, 40, of Manchester, Mich,; Kristopher T. Sickles, 27, of Sandusky, Ohio; Joshua John Clough, 28, of Blissfield, Mich.; and Thomas William Piatek, 46, of Whiting, Ind., suspects tied to Hutaree, a Christian militia. On Wednesday, March 21, 2012, defense lawyers in the trial of the seven Michigan militia members said they want a mistrial declared, claiming they should have been given details about the past work of an FBI agent who infiltrated the group. (AP Photo/U.S. Marshalls Service, File)(Credit: AP)

DETROIT (AP) — After a full day of arguments, a judge needs more time to decide whether to dismiss key charges against seven members of a Michigan militia accused of plotting to wage war against the government.

Defense attorneys sought acquittals Monday, saying prosecutors have failed to show proof of a conspiracy to commit rebellion. They admit there’s plenty of offensive talk about police and the government but all is protected by the First Amendment.

Detroit federal Judge Victoria Roberts signaled that it’s a tough decision. Near the end of the day, she said it’s unclear how speech “crossed the line” into something criminal. A ruling is likely Tuesday.

The government says the Hutaree wanted to kill a police officer and spark a broader rebellion. There was no actual attack.

More Ed White.

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