Piracy expert testifies at trial in Va.

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The chief of counter-piracy for the Office of Naval Intelligence says the April 1 attack on the USS Nicholas off the coast of Africa is consistent with the tactics used by Somali pirates.

Prosecution witness Brian P. Green testified Wednesday in Norfolk during the trial of five Somali defendants accused of piracy and other charges related to their alleged assault on the Virginia-based frigate.

During cross-examination, Green said it is not uncommon for fishermen to be forced into piracy. The Virginian-Pilot reports that defense lawyers for the five claim the men were fishermen who were kidnapped and forced into piracy.

Defense attorneys could begin presenting their case on Thursday.