Prosecution Proposes Extension of Custody

As reasons for the extension of custody, the Prosecution argued the risk of flight and influence over witnesses.

“In addition to BH citizenship, the accused also holds Croatian citizenship, as well as a passport, which creates a risk of flight that he might simply cross to other country. He might also influence witnesses who live in his surroundings in which he used to live prior to custody,” Terzic explained.

Taking into account that the indictee suffered a stroke, the Prosecutor moved that the expert findings be presented on Milic’s ability to actively participate in the trial.

Slavko Asceric, the defence counsel for the accused stated that due to his health condition, it would be most appropriate to order him a prohibiting measure.

“My defendant is unable to take care of himself, putting his clothes to begin with,” the defence counsel said.

Prosecutor Terzic argued that the accused is being provided with all the necessary assistance and care in the custody.

“In the Busovaca Penal and Correctional Prison, his wife was granted permanent entrance, whereas the accused himself said that he is provided with adequate care, including personnel assistance and therapy,” Terzic said.

According to the indictment, which was confirmed by the BiH Court on 22 March, as a former member of the Croat Defence Council (HVO), Milic took part in the murder and wounding of Bosniak civilians.

In late 2012, the BiH Prosecution also indicted Zoran Marinic, whose trial is to start on 12 April.

In noting that the accused Marinic has been ordered prohibiting measures, the defence asserted that it is an additional reason why the same measures should also apply to Milic, adding that there is a possibility of the merging of these two cases.