Judge Won't Let Defense Team Abandon Ft. Hood Shooter

Lawyers don't agree with Hasan's defense strategy and want out

FORT HOOD, Texas – The Army psychiatrist on trial for the 2009 Fort Hood shooting rampage can continue to represent himself, a military judge ruled Thursday.

A rift between Maj. Nidal Hasan and his "standby" lawyers emerged Wednesday when the defense team filed a motion asking to have reduced responsibility in the case, citing Hasan's perceived intention to receive the death penalty.

Hasan disagreed, calling his attorneys' assertion a "twist of the facts." The judge, Col. Tara Osborn, adjourned court Wednesday morning before any witnesses were heard.