US attorney in NC files motion in Hennis case

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Prosecutors in North Carolina say a federal case that could stop the court-martial of a soldier charged with killing three people in Fayetteville 15 years ago should be dropped.

The Fayetteville Observer reported that U.S. Attorney George Holding filed a motion Thursday arguing that a petition by attorneys for Master Sgt. Timothy Hennis is groundless. Hennis’ attorneys say he should be released because the Army lacks
jurisdiction.

Hennis retired from the Army in 2004.

He is accused of killing Kathryn Eastburn and two of her daughters in 1985. His trial is scheduled March 1 at Fort Bragg.

Hennis was convicted at his first trial, then acquitted at a second trial. The military recalled Hennis to active duty and charged him after civilian investigators reported DNA linked him to the crime.

Information from: The Fayetteville Observer

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