Scapegoating: a mixed report

As the CSM notes:

If any lesson can be drawn from the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse legal fallout so far, it may be this: The lowest-level soldier has the highest level of responsibility. The rank and file must clearly know right from wrong -- both in terms of their own actions and orders from superiors.

This after the Lynndie England mistrial, the Calipari murder whitewash, and the clearing of the Marine caught on videotape murdering a wounded man, might be doubted. Note that:

Of the eight soldiers charged over the abuse scandal, only ringleader Charles Graner's case has gone to trial.
Five soldiers pleaded guilty and received sentences ranging from a dishonourable discharge to eight years in prison. Graner is serving a 10-year term imposed after he was found guilty in January.

All in all, the verdict should be that a few lowest level soldiers might shoulder all of the responsibility unless it can be avoided.

In other news: the Iraqi that was photographed at Abu-Ghraib with a bag on his head speaks to PBS, and more crimes, financial and war crimes are detailed. The possibility of a British coverup is also raised.