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Family Of Wilson Soldier Convicted Of Killing Iraqi Pushing For His Release

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WILSON, N.C. — The family of a Wilson soldier convicted of killing a wounded Iraqi is pushing for his release.

Staff Sgt. Johnny Horne, who was convicted of murdering an Iraqi civilian last year, is currently serving three years in prison.

Horne's family recently started a Web site and online petition to free him. They say Horne was wrongly convicted.

Horne pleaded guilty in December to unpremeditated murder of a 16-year-old Iraqi during fighting in Baghdad's Sadr City neighborhood. Horne claimed a lieutenant ordered him to shoot the wounded teenager to put him out of his misery.

Horne also received a reduction in rank to private, total forfeiture of wages and a dishonorable discharge.

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