Al-Arian's defense presents closing arguments

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The trial of Al-Arian and three codefendants started in June.

Defense attorneys laid out their case Tuesday during closing arguments in the federal terrorism trial of former University of South Florida professor Sami Al-Arian.

Defense attorneys told the jury the case against Al-Arian is not a criminal case, but a political case. The defense argued the government is holding Al-Arian's beliefs against him.

More information
	Click here for a story about Monday's arguments made by the prosecution. Click here for previous stories about the case. Click here for a timeline of the case.

Defense attorney Linda Moreno said the case against Al-Arian was a prosecution of his ideas and beliefs.

Outside the courthouse, protestors gathered to voice their concerns about the trial, holding signs that read "Prejudice is un-American" and "Everyone deserves a fair trial."

The closing arguments will continue Wednesday.

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