Trial delayed for eight people in militia case

DETROIT (AP) -- A September trial was postponed last Thursday until 2012 for eight people accused of belonging to an anti-government Michigan militia. Defense lawyers said there was not enough time to challenge some evidence or study fresh material turned over by prosecutors. They asked for a four-month extension but got nearly five. The trial, which could last five weeks, is now set for Feb. 7 in federal court. "There are matters that simply can't be accomplished" by the original date, Sept. 13, said U.S. District Court Judge Victoria Roberts, who has other fall trials scheduled. Eight people are charged with conspiring to commit rebellion against the government and other crimes. There's a ninth defendant, but he's being treated to improve his mental health. It's possible he could be declared competent by the new trial date. All have pleaded not guilty. The government says the nine belonged to a group called Hutaree, based in southern Michigan's Lenawee County. The government says the group was training to kill a police officer and then attack more officers who would attend the funeral. Defense attorneys say the group engaged in stupid, hateful speech but nothing criminal. Five of the nine defendants have been in jail since their arrest. By the time of trial, they will have been in custody for nearly two years. Published: Mon, Aug 15, 2011