The Trial of Tarek Mehanna: Free Speech Or Terrorism

25:00

November 01, 2011

Tarek Mehanna supporters stand in the rain with a sign outside of U.S. District Court in Boston, Oct. 27. (AP)

Tarek Mehanna, from Sudbury, was arrested two years ago and is now on trial in federal court Boston. He's charged, among other things, with conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists by translating texts associated with Al Qaida.

Critics say he's being prosecuted for merely expressing his views. What do you think? Is expressing support for Al Qaida and translating jihadist tracks tantamount to committing acts of terrorism? Or does the government's case violate Tarek Mehanna's first amendment rights?

Guests:

Harvey Silverglate, Boston criminal defense and civil liberties litigator
Capt. Glenn Sulmasy, law professor, U.S. Coast Guard Academy in Connecticut

This program aired on November 1, 2011.