Charge dropped in Iraq killing

— The government has dropped a murder charge against a Marine who pleaded guilty Tuesday to dereliction of duty for killing an unarmed Iraqi detainee during a battle to recapture the city of Fallujah.

If convicted of murder, Sgt. Jermaine Nelson could have faced a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Instead, he now faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a bad conduct discharge.

Defense attorney Joseph Low told reporters the plea agreement says Nelson will not serve any prison time and will be honorably discharged.

Military officials wouldn't immediately confirm the terms of the plea deal.

Front Section, Pages 4 on 09/30/2009

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