The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Daily: Prosecuting Terrorism and the Pursuit of Justice, with Jake Tapper
Oct 16, 2025
Jake Tapper, CNN's chief correspondent and author of "Race Against Terror," dives into the gripping story of Spin Ghul, the first major international terrorist tried in a U.S. civilian court. He shares how detailed investigations by the FBI and collaboration with international partners shaped the outcome. Tapper discusses the unique challenges of prosecuting terrorism, including political resistance and the role of classified evidence. He argues that civilian trials can enhance national security and provide valuable lessons about the justice system in a post-9/11 world.
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Chance Meeting Sparked The Book
- Jake Tapper heard the Spengool story at his son's paintball birthday from a father who knew the prosecutors.
- That chance encounter led Tapper to interview the key investigators and write the book.
Policy Shift Made A Race Against Time
- The Obama administration preferred civilian criminal trials over Gitmo to align with American values.
- That policy shift created urgency to prove Spengool's crimes before foreign partners demanded low-security options.
Foreign Cooperation Came With Strings
- European partners distrusted U.S. tactics like rendition and torture, complicating cooperation.
- Italy still cooperated quickly but attached strict conditions: no Gitmo, no military commissions, and no death penalty.
