Army Will Seek Death Penalty For Accused Afghanistan Shooter Robert Bales of JBLM

The Army plans to seek the death penalty against accused Afghanistan shooter Staff Sgt. Robert Bales.

The New York Times reported that the Army is seeking the punishment, although no trial date is set for Bales - a Lake Tapps man who's assigned to Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

The 39-year-old faces numerous charges, or specifications, including 16 counts of premeditated murder and wounding another six people. He’s also accused of possessing and using steroids.

During the pre-trial portion of his Article 32 hearing in early November, Army prosecutors tried to portray that Bales carried out the attack in cold, deliberate fashion.

His defense argued that multiple deployments, alcohol and stress contributed to his role in the shootings.

Here's Patch's previous coverage:

• First Day of Army Staff Sgt. Robert Bales' Hearing Contains Chilling Testimony

• ROBERT BALES TRIAL: "I Thought I Was Doing The Right Thing"

The New York Times is reporting that although the Army is seeking the death penalty, legally it's an uphill battle.

What do you think, Patch users? Do you think Bales, who's assigned to the post in our back yard, should face the death penalty based on the evidence presented?