A defendant has the right to a fair trial. He can decide, at his own discretion, whether and how he wants to take part in clearing up the charges brought against him. He may remain silent, sit impassively, or actively follow the proceedings. But what he may not and should not do is behave in court like John Demjanjuk, 89.
Highly suggestive images have been broadcast from Room A 101 of Munich's criminal justice center. Viewers around the world have seen what appears to be a dying old man, strapped into a bulky stretcher and wrapped in blankets -- despite the overheated courtroom -- as if he had just been snatched from his doctors to be placed before the judges.
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