Sentencing trial opens for 9/11 defendant

Zacarias Moussaoui’s sentencing trial opened in Alexandria, Virginia, today 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 who appeared upset at being chosen was excused, meaning the trial will proceed with 12 jurors and five alternates instead of six.