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New trial begins in Italy for ex-Nazi
April 14, 1997
Web posted at: 12:57 p.m. EDT (1657 GMT)
ROME (CNN) -- Former Nazi SS captain Erich Priebke appeared before an Italian court on the first day of his second trial for World War II-era war crimes. Priebke, 83, is accused of taking part in the 1944 execution of 335 civilians in retaliation for a bombing by the Italian resistance against occupying German forces.
Priebke was convicted of murder last August by a military court. But the court cleared him of premeditation and cruelty, the aggravating circumstances necessary to override Italy's 30-year statute of limitations on murder. An appellate court ordered the new trial after prosecutors filed an appeal arguing that the military court was biased.
Priebke is under house arrest in a Roman Catholic convent south of Rome. He told the court Monday that he is unwell and will not attend future hearings unless called upon.
Reuters contributed to this report.
Related stories:
- Ex-Nazi Priebke jailed again - August 2, 1996
- Ex-SS officer blames Italian civilians for Nazi massacre - April 3, 1996
- Italy and Germany seek extradition of Nazis - April 3, 1996
- Former Nazi officer faces war crimes trial - November 21, 1995
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