Suspect in botched New York car bombing appears in court

THE suspect in a botched car bombing in New York’s Times Square appeared in court on terrorism and weapons charges for the first time since his arrest two weeks ago and was led away in handcuffs after being held without bail.

Faisal Shahzad, a Pakistan-born US citizen, muttered one word at the 10-minute hearing – “yes” – when asked to confirm an affidavit about his financial status, which allowed him to have a public defender appointed.

Shahzad, wearing a grey tracksuit and with his hair a bit longer than in photos splashed around the world, was handcuffed and led out of court after a magistrate read him his rights.