Topic: Padilla Is Competent To Face Terror Trial, Prosecutors Say

Washington Post
February 10, 2007
Pg. 18


MIAMI -- An evaluation of suspected al-Qaeda operative Jose Padilla by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons has found him competent to stand trial on terrorism charges, government attorneys said in court documents filed Friday.
Padilla 36, can understand the court proceedings and communicate with his attorneys, according to prosecutors' description of the report's conclusions.
Padilla, a U.S. citizen and former Chicago gang member, contends that he was tortured in custody. His attorneys say he is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, which raises questions about his competence for trial, allegations that federal officials reject.
A competency hearing is set for next Friday.