The commanding officer of Wisconsin's Iraq deployed National Guard units says detainees are treated with respect and dignity. Colonel Steve Bensend of the 32nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team says the detainees being guarded by his Wisconsin troops are varied a lot. Some are criminals, while others are suspected terrorists
"They are people who have been detained over the course of the years. They are slowly being pushed through the Iraqi criminal courts system and released back into society, or the Iraqis are holding them in Iraqi facilities as time goes forward," says Bensend.
Bensend says the detainees are well treated – but do not enjoy better amenities than the troops guarding them. "They detainees are treated very fairly, they are getting good food and water. I would not class it as a better treatment than our soldiers, however I would tell you that we are treating them with respect and dignity."
During a conference call with reporters, Bensend says the quality of Iraqi troops is improving – reflecting the thorough training they've received from the 32nd and other American troops.
AUDIO: Bob Hague reports (:60 MP3)
