Life or death — sentencing trial of Moussaoui begins

THE sentencing trial of Zacarias Moussaoui opened in Alexandria, Virginia, yesterday with the selection of a jury that will determine whether he is put to death for conspiring with al-Qaida terrorists to hijack planes and commit other crimes.

US District Judge Leonie Brinkema seated 18 jurors and alternates after a 90-minute process. One was excused and the trial proceeded with 12 jurors and five alternates.

Moussaoui, a 37-year-old French citizen, has acknowledged his loyalty to the al-Qaida terrorist network and his intent to commit acts of terrorism, but denies any prior knowledge of the September 11 plot.