The Wilmington Morning Star (May 17, 1946)
Tojo loses last escape loophole
Tribunal dismisses all defense motions on jurisdiction points
TOKYO (AP) – The legal fight by ex-Premier Hideki Tojo and 27 other former leaders of Japan to escape trial as accused war criminals failed completely Thursday.
In a five-minute session, the International Military Tribunal for the Far East dismissed all defense motions attacking jurisdiction of the court and seeking dismissal of the indictment accusing prisoners of promoting war.
Chief Justice Sir William Webb announced that “all motions are dismissed for reasons to be discussed later,” then adjourned proceedings. The trial is scheduled to start June 3.
It was reported that Dr. Shumei Okawa, who slapped Tojo on the head at an earlier session, had been found to be suffering from brain disease and that former Foreign Minister Yosuke Matsuoka was “dangerously ill.” Both have been absent from the courtroom for medical examination. They may not be tried.
The Evening Star (May 17, 1946)
Tokyo court refuses to quash indictment of Tojo and aides
TOKYO (AP) – Laying down a new concept of international law, the 11-nation International Military Tribunal ruled today that Hideki Tojo and 27 other Japanese must face trial as accused war criminals.
Specifically, the court dismissed all defense motions, which asked that the indictment against them be quashed and argued that the tribunal had no authority to try Japan’s war-fostering former leaders.
Chief Justice Sir William Webb gave no reasons for the dismissal in a brief court session. He said they would be discussed in court later but specified no date. The trial is scheduled June 3.
By the ruling, the tribunal upheld its right to try the 28 on charges of mass murder and of inciting war. It also denied defense assertions that the accused were not liable to prosecution for activities predating the outbreak of war or for any violations of international law other than conventional war crimes.
The tribunal in effect also held with the prosecution that those responsible for starting “ruthless and unjustified wars threatening the existence of civilization” are not immune from prosecution under international law.
The Evening Star (May 18, 1946)
Three D.C. lawyers join Japs’ defense
TOKYO (AP) – Fourteen attorneys from the United States arrived today to join 10 other American lawyers assigned to represent Hideki Tojo and 27 other top Japanese defendants at war crimes trials.
Navy Capt. Beverly M. Coleman, chief of defense counsel, said ultimately each of the 28 defendants would be represented by an American attorney in addition to Japanese lawyers of their own choosing.
The new arrivals include Owen Cunningham, David F. Smith and John W. Guider, all of Washington.