Pinochet Homicide Charges DroppedA 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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