Marine Says He Isn't Guilty

Thursday, February 8th 2007, 11:03 am

By: News On 6

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (AP) _ A Marine facing life in prison after pleading guilty to kidnapping and murdering an Iraqi man asked to withdraw his pleas Thursday, saying he no longer believes he's guilty.

``He believes he acted with lawful authority, and for that reason he is withdrawing his plea,'' attorney Victor Kelley said for Cpl. Trent Thomas during Thomas' sentencing hearing.

The military judge ordered a 30-minute recess and asked Thomas's defense team to present their case as to why they no longer believe his is guilty.

Thomas, 25, pleaded guilty Jan. 18 to eight felonies including kidnapping, murder and assault. He was one of a squad of seven Marines and a sailor accused last year of hatching a plot to kill an Iraqi in the town of Hamdania.