Smith to testify when Subic rape trial resumes

By Volt Contreras -- Inquirer

HALFWAY through the Subic rape trial, a contrast in strategy is emerging: While the prosecution had opted for a gradual buildup of evidence, the defense apparently wants to go for “impact” right away.

Six days before the landmark trial resumes, Filipino lawyers defending the four accused US Marines reportedly plan to present Lance Corporal Daniel Smith as their first witness.

Smith has been tagged by the Filipino complainant “Nicole” -- not her real name -- as the one who allegedly raped her in a moving van while the three other American soldiers cheered him on. The alleged incident took place on the night of November 1 last year at the sprawling Subic Freeport northwest of Manila.

“If it were building a house, Smith’s testimony is like laying the foundation on which all the other building blocks will be based,” according to a source privy to case, who requested not to be named.

Also charged in the case are Lance Corporals Keith Silkwood and Dominic Duplantis, and Staff Sergeant Chad Carpentier . They could face up to 40 years in prison if convicted