FORT HOOD, Texas (KXAN) — Speaking slowly and deliberately, Colonel Michael Mulligan delivered a 45-minute closing statement that began with one word.
A word that was then repeated several times for the jury panel to ponder.
“Death.”
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In order for Hasan to receive the death penalty, all 13 jurors must unanimously agree on that punishment. The decision is not considered a sure thing due to a perceived belief that Hasan wants to die to become a martyr.
Mulligan addressed that, as well when the discussion of death turned away from that of the soldiers and towards the possibility of Hasan’s.
“Do not offer what you don’t own. Never give what is not yours. He will not be a martyr because he has nothing to give,” said Mulligan in the final minute of his statement.
“He is not giving his life. We are taking his life. He is not now and he will never be a martyr. He is a criminal. He is a cold-blooded murderer.”
The jury panel was told they would have to determine how much value they place on a life, two lives, and for 13 lives.
The worth of an arm, the use of an eye, a child’s life without a father or mother.
“Today will be his day of reckoning. One voice will announce the sentence. One voice speaking for 13. Let it be strong, let it be unwavering, let it be a sentence to death.”