Accused Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev professed his innocence today in federal court, making a quick but dramatic first appearance under the stares of victims and their family members as he recited "not guilty" seven times in a thick accent.Judge Marianne Bowler's courtroom was packed for the 19-year-old's arraignment on 30 charges, including use of a weapon of mass destruction resulting in death.
Two women believed to be his sisters, one carrying a baby, cried in court as Tsarnaev appeared shackled and handcuffed while dressed in an orange prison jumpsuit.
The courtroom, packed with many turned away to a spillover room, was silent as the accused teen killer was arraigned. Marathon bombing victims and their families, spectators and media began lining up for a look at the alleged bomber as early as 7:30 a.m. for the 3:30 p.m. hearing. Some even clashed with Tsarnaev's sympathizers.
"I have sympathy for the victims. I can see where they are coming from," said Tsarnaev supporter Jennifer Mack of Boston. "At the same time, this is my country. I can support who I want."
| Jennifer Mack of Boston is a heartless idiot. You may quote me. |
| So it will be whatever is convenient to Champ at the time... |
Supporters, including one who came all the way from Washington state, said they believe Tsarnaev is innocent.
"I see zero evidence to say he actually did this," added Lacey Buckley, 23, of Washington state. "There is no DNA; there are no fingerprints. They got nothing."
| Lacey Buckley is also a heartless, thoughtless, stupid idiot. Quote me. |
| These people are psychologically bent, to borrow a phrase used by Ace last night. That is the only explanation. I don't know if their nihilistic ideology makes them do it or whether they're just as evil as Dhozer, but not quite as bold. |
| I suspect rather they are the kind of witless airheaded females who stop thinking when they see a pretty male face. What are now being referred to as low information voters. |
Lawyers said 80 to 100 witnesses will be called in the trial that could last about four months.
Dzhokhar was taken away in a white prison van right after the hearing.
