NY closing arguments paint competing pictures of scientist accused of trying to kill Americans

Pakistani scientist’s trial hits closing arguments

NEW YORK — Is she an al-Qaida sympathizer who hates Americans, or a fearful scientist framed by the government?

Manhattan jurors heard both depictions of Aafia Siddiqui (ah-FEE’-uh sih-DEE’-kee) on Monday during closing arguments at her attempted murder trial.

The prosecution says the U.S.-trained Pakistani scientist grabbed an assault rifle and shot at American personnel while detained in Afghanistan in 2008.

She denies any wrongdoing. Defense attorney Linda Moreno says there is no physical evidence that the weapon was touched by Siddqui, “let alone fired by her.”

Prosecutors say that when she was arrested, Siddiqui was carrying instructions for a dirty bomb and a list of New York City landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty.

She is not facing terrorism charges.