Probe into cameraman's death reopened
Military Advocate General appeals acquittal of officer involved in shooting of British photographer in 2003; southern command head expected to hear re-trial
TEL AVIV – The Military Advocate General Avi Mandelblit has appealed the acquittal of an IDF officer involved in the shooting and killing of British photographer James Miller in the Gaza Strip two years ago.
Two weeks ago Ynetnews reported that the two-year internal probe into the incident had not uncovered proof of wrongdoing.
The officer, who faced disciplinary action following the incident, was acquitted of all charges regarding illegal use of his rifle.
However, despite the verdict, Mendelblit has decided to reopen the case, and the officer is set to stand trial once again. This time he is expected to be retried before the southern command chief.
Caught in the cross-fire
James Miller, 34, was killed in the Rafah refugee camp in the Gaza Strip while making the documentary "Death in Gaza", about Palestinian children caught up in the conflict with Israel.
Miller was killed on the Philadelphi Route while IDF soldiers were in the midst of uncovering an arms smuggling tunnel.
During the IDF operation, Palestinians opened fire at the troops and Miller was caught in the crossfire.
Military Police findings revealed that the commanding officer of the unit at the scene allegedly fired his weapon in breach of IDF rules of engagement.
Scientific evidence collected during the year-and-a-half investigation, including ballistic tests, satellite images, as well as several lie detector tests, led to the conclusion that the evidence in the case was insufficient for conviction.
'All-encompassing investiagtion'
IDF officials told Ynet the area was a combat zone, in which every movement was considered life-threatening.
While it was unclear at the time who’s bullet had killed Miller, officials said the investigation into the killing was “the most complete and all-encompassing” the army has ever conducted.
At the time, the incident caused a deep row between Israel and Britain, with British authorities calling for an investigation.
