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Pinochet Homicide Charges Dropped
A Chilean court dropped homicide and kidnapping charges against Gen. Augusto Pinochet on Thursday, but ruled the former dictator must still be tried for covering up the crimes.
The 2-1 vote by the Santiago Court of Appeals watering down the criminal charges disappointed both supporters and foes of the 85-year-old general, whom the court ordered to remain under house arrest.
The court is expected to decide by the end of this month on a request by Pinochet's defense to close the case, alleging that his deteriorated health prevents him from properly organizing his defense, thus depriving him of his right to a fair trial.
Doctors in January said Pinochet suffers from ``moderate dementia'' brought on by minor strokes. He also has diabetes and arthritis, and wears a pacemaker.
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