WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange pleaded guilty to a single felony charge for publishing military secrets in a US court and walked free. The judge accepted his plea, marking the end of a legal battle that questioned press freedom and national security.
‘Greatest threat to the First Amendment in the 21st century,’ says lawyer
Assange’s legal team celebrated the verdict as historic and a victory for freedom of speech. The plea deal allowed Assange to walk out of the courtroom a free man after facing indictment on multiple espionage charges.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also welcomed the plea hearing as a positive outcome. Assange is set to be sentenced to 62 months of time already served and return to Australia after a 14-year legal battle.
What are the details of the plea deal?
Assange was indicted on multiple counts related to the Espionage Act for publishing classified information. Under the deal, he pleaded guilty to one charge and 17 other charges were dropped.
Assange arrived at the court in the Northern Mariana Islands after his release from Belmarsh Prison in the UK. The case’s conclusion marked the end of a decade-long legal battle and his return to Australia.
Reporters from around the world gathered outside the courtroom in Saipan, where Assange faced trial due to its proximity to Australia. The press was not allowed inside, but the verdict was celebrated as a victory for free speech.
Why is the case being heard in the Northern Mariana Islands?
The choice to hold the trial in the remote territory was influenced by Assange’s opposition to traveling to the US mainland. After years of legal battles, Assange can now return to Australia, where he is set to be sentenced.
Assange’s wife reflected on the emotional journey outside the courtroom, emphasizing the sensory overload after years of isolation and confinement.