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CNN Wolf Blitzer Reports

U.S. Federal Prosecutor Found Dead; New Developments in Michael Jackson Case; Authorities Seize Files From Limbaugh's Doctors

Aired December 04, 2003 - 17:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


WOLF BLITZER, CNN ANCHOR: Happening now, the worst fears come true, a U.S. federal prosecutor in Baltimore investigating illegal drug sales is found dead. We're about to get details at a news conference. We'll take it live.
Stand by for hard news on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): Vanished, did his first victim tip off police?

SHIRLEY IVERSON, RODRIGUEZ' VICTIM: And something about it just really grabbed my attention.

BLITZER: Michael Jackson case, the father of another child comes forward, this time in support of the superstar.

After bin Laden, will killing the al Qaeda leader make any difference?

Who's pumped up? A grand jury asks a future hall of famer about steroids in sports.

Rush Limbaugh's records, the radio host says authorities have seized files from his doctors and he's not happy.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

ANNOUNCER: This is WOLF BLITZER REPORTS for Thursday, December 4, 2003.

BLITZER: An assistant United States attorney prosecuting a rapper on drug charges found dead with gunshot and stab wounds. We're standing by for a news conference in Baltimore, Maryland expected to start in the next several moments on the death of Jonathan Luna reported missing when he failed to show up for a trial earlier today. We'll have more on this developing story including the news conference in just a few moments.

First, let's move on to this. The man accused of kidnapping Dru Sjodin went to court today. Bond was set at $5 million for Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr., but attorneys say Rodriguez has agreed to remain in custody for his own safety.

CNN's Mike Brooks has been following today's developments. He's joining us now live -- Mike.

MIKE BROOKS, CNN LAW ENFORCEMENT CORRESPONDENT: Good evening, Wolf.

Investigators and prosecutors say they still are not at liberty to discuss specific evidence they have against Rodriguez as he made his initial court appearance this afternoon.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The State of North Dakota, Plaintiff versus Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr.

BROOKS (voice-over): New details were emerging about the investigation that led to his arrest.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mr. Rodriguez, did you understand the charges read against you?

ALFONSO RODRIGUEZ, DEFENDANT: Yes.

BROOKS: Rodriguez, a convicted sex offender, is accused of kidnapping 22-year-old Dru Sjodin from the parking lot of the shopping mall where she worked.

Shirley Iverson says when she first heard news accounts of Sjodin's disappearance there were unsettling similarities to what happened nearly 30 years ago when she lived in Crookston, Minnesota when she was raped. That was Rodriguez' first of three sex-related convictions.

IVERSON: And something about it just really grabbed my attention and I looked at the information that was available on the Internet and something more grabbed my attention. There were just some things that in my stomach I thought that I needed to call the police in Grand Forks.

BROOKS: Iverson says she believes other women also contacted police before they arrested Rodriguez Monday. Investigators have been questioning Rodriguez but so far they say he's provided no information that could lead them to Sjodin. The missing woman's mother is asking for help from the Rodriguez family.

LINDA WALKER, DRU SJODIN'S MOTHER: That his mother please speak to her son and his sister to please speak to her brother and ask on the behalf of all of us the love that we have for Dru and the love from the community that we want her back in our arms.

BROOKS: Police and volunteers continue to search the bleak December landscape. The question sometimes unspoken can Dru Sjodin still be alive?

IVERSON: What I think he's shown is that he's capable of violent crimes. I think each of the women and testimony in the court proceedings have talked about fearing for their lives during their assault. LAURA BOUCHE, DRU SJODIN'S SORORITY SISTER: Yes, I'm very hopeful. We just pray and try to remain optimistic and to stay positive to send out good energy to Dru so when we find her that she'll know that we've been praying and thinking about her this whole time.

WALKER: We're very steadfast in the fact that Dru has a very strong spirit, a kind soul and we know that she has the strength and (unintelligible) to survive this situation.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BROOKS: Prosecutors say with the evidence they do have there is a substantial likelihood of conviction if it goes to trial. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 4th and arraignment is set for February 5th -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Mike Brooks thanks very much.

Shortly, we'll be speaking with the police chief of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Chief John Packett. We'll get to him shortly.

But let's move to our top story now, the death of that federal prosecutor in Baltimore, Maryland Jonathan Luna. We're joined now by Adam May of our CNN affiliate WJZ who's following this shocking story. Adam, tell us what you know.

Right now details just coming in here, Wolf. In fact, they're expected to hold a news conference here in the next 15 minutes, the U.S. attorneys, also the FBI and other agencies.

Here's what we can tell you that we know right now. Police and federal agents began their search for Jonathan Luna when he failed to show up to court here early this morning.

Right now there are investigators combing a crime scene in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, sources there telling us that Luna had been shot at least once and also stabbed multiple times.

Now this was supposed to be the fourth day of a trial against two men accused of running a very violent drug ring here in Baltimore City, right now authorities not saying if that case and Luna's murder are connected more information to come here in that news conference in the next few minutes -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Any fears earlier as far as you know, Adam that he was potentially in danger?

MAY: No indication of that right now, he had been with the U.S. Attorney's Office here for about four years. He's originally from North Carolina, had not been here in Baltimore all that long. Prior to this he gained some notoriety for a couple of sex offense cases but nothing very major -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Adam May from CNN affiliate WJZ thanks very much for that report. And we're standing by for that news conference in Baltimore from the U.S. attorney in Baltimore for the state of Maryland. We'll get some more details. That's coming up soon.

But let's go back to North Dakota right now, more on the missing 22-year-old woman Dru Sjodin. We're joined by the Grand Forks, North Dakota Police Chief John Packet. Chief, once again, thank you very much for joining us.

Did this woman, Shirley Iverson, who was raped by Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. more than 30 years ago or so or some 30 years ago or so did she provide information that led you to him?

CHIEF JOHN PACKETT, GRAND FORKS POLICE: I have no personal knowledge of her involvement in this case but peripherally it appears that she's been very instrumental in helping the investigators, yes, and it's one of those rare occasions where we have an opportunity to talk to victims, give us a little information on individuals like Mr. Rodriguez.

And it's the totality of that type of information from the past and what we've been able to gather specifically in cases like this that's allowed us to have days like today. There are certainly highs and lows.

You have the first appearance for bond setting but then you have weather setting in and a search for Dru and we haven't found her yet so it's definitely a day of highs and lows.

BLITZER: It's definitely starting to snow out there. That makes it more complicated doesn't it?

PACKETT: Yes, it certainly does but I think it reinforces that we're all resolute in finding Dru. We're still getting an awful lot of energy and enthusiasm from the searchers and from her family and that's what keeps us going in this endeavor.

We've definitely passed the 50-yard line on this case as we're not close enough to kick a field goal on it and we won't be satisfied with that. We're heading for the end zone and the end zone will be finding Dru and bringing her home to her family.

BLITZER: A couple of days ago when we spoke, chief, you thought she was still alive. Do you still believe that?

PACKETT: I'm as convinced today as I was a few days ago that that's our main goal. That's what keeps us going in this case. Those of us that have had the opportunity to interact with her family and those that know her have given us the enthusiasm we need that if anybody could withstand this ordeal she can and that's what drives us today. Even on a day like today I think we have to stay motivated and stay enthused and hopeful that that will be the case.

BLITZER: Is Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. the only suspect in this case? PACKETT: He is the only suspect in this case at this time as was indicated in court today and in documents that I'm sure that will be released in the near future that there's good probable cause that resulted in the search warrants, good probable cause that resulted in his arrest.

There's been three interviews that I'm aware of with Mr. Rodriguez in the last 12 to 16 hours that the positive sign there is he is talking to us. We are respectful of his counsel.

Whenever he invokes his rights we honor that but we're looking forward to continue to talk to him and the prosecutors move forward with this case to get additional information to bring Dru home.

BLITZER: Has he given you any leads where she might be?

PACKETT: I'm really not in a position to discuss exactly what has been discussed with Mr. Rodriguez but suffice it to say we're satisfied that we have a dialogue ongoing with him and we're hopeful that information will be provided in the near future that will be beneficial to finding where Dru is.

BLITZER: Well that's very encouraging the first confirmation, chief, that we're getting that he is at least cooperating a bit with you.

PACKETT: Yes. It's -- I feel it's very positive that we have a dialogue. He is communicating with us and I think with the advice of his counsel and the advice of family and certainly our encouragement of wanting to continue to talk to him I hope we can have a positive outcome.

BLITZER: Chief John Packett, Grand Forks Police Department, thanks very much chief for that. Good luck to you. Good luck to all the men and women who work with you and good luck in the search for Dru Sjodin.

PACKETT: Thank you, Wolf.

BLITZER: Let's move on. More crime elsewhere around the United States, truckers who drive Ohio's Interstate 270 are now being asked to watch for anything that might help police find out who has been shooting at cars in at least one school along one stretch of the highway.

CNN's Kris Osborn is joining us now. He's all over this story in Columbus, Ohio. What's the latest, Kris?

KRIS OSBORN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good evening to you, Wolf.

Well ever since those ballistic matches were announced a few days ago, investigators acknowledge progress has been, well frankly slow going. I asked one key member of the investigation not long ago are you close to an arrest and the answer I got was an emphatic no.

That is at this point they are not close to an arrest. That being said I spent part of the afternoon driving up and down I-270, that five-mile stretch in question of course, the location of so many of these shootings, mysterious, tough to explain shootings.

There were a lot of trucks on the road. Of course there was a warning today, an advisory sent out for truckers to be extra cautious, extra vigilant in the event that they might see something suspicious.

Also right nearby that segment of I-270 was the elementary school. We drove by the school. It is not very far from the highway and this point in question. There were some investigators going in and out of the school.

Now earlier the school was mentioned as a location where they were stepping up security. Well, today we learned it is now in addition to security it's one of the places where they're focusing their investigation.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CHIEF DEPUTY STEVE MARTIN, FRANKLIN COUNTY, OHIO SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT: Sheriffs and police personnel have met with school administration and students in an attempt to both reassure as well as seek information that relate to the identification of the person or persons responsible for the shot fired at the school in the early morning hours of November 11th.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

OSBORN: Also, Wolf, Chief Martin said in the unlikely event that there is another shooting, interesting they hadn't brought up the prospect of another shooting quite in this way before, if there is an unlikely event and there is another shooting he had some tips, some advisories, if you will, for those who might be shot. He said keep driving. Call 911 and, of course, notify authorities immediately -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Kris Osborn in Columbus with that thanks Kris very much. We'll continue to watch that story.

We're also standing by for a news conference in Baltimore, Maryland. The federal prosecutor who failed to show up at court today was found dead just a short time ago in nearby Pennsylvania. We'll bring it to you live as soon as it begins.

Also ahead, Rush Limbaugh accuses prosecutors of seizing his medical records from four doctors. We'll have a live report on this developing story.

New support for the King of Pop, hear from a young person who spent the night in Michael Jackson's home and is now speaking out in his defense. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: You're looking at a live picture from Baltimore, Maryland. We're expecting a news conference momentarily on the death of a federal prosecutor who failed to show up at a court trial earlier today. His body has now been found. We'll go to that news conference in Baltimore, a shocking story. We'll go there live as soon as it starts.

In the meantime, other news we're watching right now. Radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh today announced on the air authorities have seized his medical records from four doctors. Limbaugh recently returned to work after treatment for an addiction to painkillers.

Let's go live to our National Correspondent Susan Candiotti. She's following the story in Miami -- Susan.

SUSAN CANDIOTTI, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Wolf.

What's interesting here is that the Palm Beach County State Attorney's Office has never officially acknowledged that it is conducting a criminal investigation of Rush Limbaugh and his admitted drug use.

However, today investigators put into a public court file confirmation that they have conducted a search of some of Rush Limbaugh's doctors' offices within the last ten days.

Our sources tell us they went through four offices, at least three in Palm Beach County, and one in Los Angeles. Furthermore, this information that we just received on file in the Clerk's Office tells us that a state investigation shows what they refer to as doctor shopping on the part of Rush Limbaugh for controlled substances, more on that in a moment.

Just hours before that court filing, it was Mr. Limbaugh's attorney who first announced that these medical records were seized and a statement was read by the talk show host himself.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

RUSH LIMBAUGH, TALK SHOW HOST: What these records show is that I did suffer pain and had legitimate reasons for taking pain medication. I quote now from Mr. Black.

"Unfortunately, because of Mr. Limbaugh's prominence and well- known political opinions, he's being subjected to an invasion of privacy that no citizen of this republic should endure. So let us make our position clear."

(BREAKING NEWS)

BLITZER: And that was Rush Limbaugh. We're going to interrupt that report to go to Baltimore. We're now going to hear from the U.S. Attorney in Baltimore on the death of a federal prosecutor.

TOM DIBIAGIO, U.S. ATTORNEY: Prayers from all law enforcement go out to his family at this tragic time. Let there be no doubt, let there be no doubt that everyone in law enforcement, local police, state police, United States Marshals, ATF, FBI are united.

We will find out who did this and we are dedicated to bringing the persons responsible for this tragedy to justice. That's a commitment from me. That's a commitment from every law enforcement officer in the state of Maryland -- Jennifer.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Thank you, Tom. First, I want to start by expressing my sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Jonathan. He will be truly missed.

The FBI is aggressively investigating the circumstances surrounding Jonathan's death and we will continue our ongoing efforts with our partners in state, federal and local law enforcement to pursue (AUDIO GAP).

Since this is an ongoing investigation we are not able to comment and provide any details at this time. We appreciate your concern and will continue to provide you with information when we can.

In the meantime, we are asking that you help us in getting the word out to the viewing public for anyone who might have any information surrounding the circumstances of Jonathan's death to contact us. We can be reached. Our telephone number at the FBI is 410-265-8080 again, 410-265-8080.

DIBIAGIO: Following up on what Jennifer said I have another number which may be -- will be in place tomorrow. It's 443-436-7772. That's 443-436-7772 and I urge anyone out there with any information about this event that saw anything, heard anything that can assist law enforcement to please call the FBI, the United States Marshal Service, call the local police, call 911.

Finally, I want to thank the Pennsylvania State Police and the prosecutors in Lancaster County for their assistance in working with us to find out exactly what happened. Good evening.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you know when the last time was he was saw alive?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: May we get a photo of (unintelligible).

BLITZER: All right. The U.S. Attorney for the state of Maryland, Tom DiBiagio and a representative of the FBI speaking at a news conference in Baltimore, an incredibly sad story that we're following right now, a federal prosecutor Jonathan Luna, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Maryland was found shot, stabbed to death just a little while ago in nearby Pennsylvania.

He had been investigating a drug ring in the Baltimore, Maryland area. We don't know if there's any direct connection to that investigation. We do know that the U.S. Attorney and the FBI are now searching desperately for those responsible for the murder of Jonathan Luna.

CNN's Mike Brooks, our Law Enforcement Correspondent, has been doing some checking of his own into this story, a very sad story. "We will find out who did this. We are all dedicated to bringing that person to justice," the U.S. Attorney says. This hits right home with these guys doesn't it Mike? BROOKS: Absolutely, Wolf.

I mean you know you've got the law enforcement officers that are out there on the streets. They lock the people up. They put them in the criminal justice system and then this happens.

Again, we don't know who is responsible for this and I guarantee you as the U.S. Attorney said, the FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshal Service, state and local police they are putting out the dragnet tonight, if you will, just to coin a phrase but I tell you they're taking it very seriously and it's not very often you hear of a United States Attorney that is killed.

The circumstances surrounding it, I'll be very anxious to hear what they are and if, in fact, it is involved with this case or is involved with another case or possibly a case that is even pending trial right now.

We don't know for sure and law enforcement, again, they will be playing their cards very close to the vest with any facts that they have, particularly in a case of a United States Attorney -- Wolf.

BLITZER: We do know, don't we, that the law enforcement, the FBI, local law enforcement they're very anxious for the public to weigh in if they have any information whatsoever. That's why they're putting out these tip numbers immediately to try to get the assistance. Perhaps someone may have seen something that could be of help.

BROOKS: Exactly and I think as we go along in this investigation, depending on how it goes on the law enforcement side how many leads that they get, how many leads they're able to run out.

I think that they will be asking the public for more help. We might be able to get a description of the AUSA's car. We may be getting some more information of maybe his route of travel there and they want to get this information out to the public so, again, so they can get any substantial leads they can get to try to solve this case as quickly as possible.

BLITZER: The Assistant U.S. Attorney in Maryland Jonathan Luna, his body was found. It was riddled with gunshot and stab wounds. We'll continue to follow this shocking story for our viewers, bring you updates as they become available.

One more time, though, if you have any information the FBI wants to hear from you. I'll put the number up 410, that's the area code, 265-8080. We'll have more on this story as it becomes available.

The al Qaeda threat, can the terrorist network still operate if Osama bin Laden is captured or killed? The terrorism expert Brian Jenkins, he's joining me live. He's got some information on that.

Speaking out in support of Michael Jackson why are some choosing to support the pop star right now? Also happening right now a holiday celebration here in Washington, it's called the Pageant of Peace. The president and the first lady they're standing by.. They're getting ready to light the national Christmas tree. We'll have live coverage of that. That's coming up. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: There are new voices of support this afternoon for Michael Jackson as he faces child molestation charges. Our National Correspondent Gary Tuchman is in L.A. He's got details -- Gary.

GARY TUCHMAN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, we do but first authorities in Santa Barbara County are telling us their case against Michael Jackson is strong despite reports and some speculation that it's weakening amid a delay in the release of the formal charges.

A source close to the investigation tells us that "time is our ally. There is no rush to file these formal charges" but it will happen the week of December 15, which is a week and a half away.

They say that they've received dozens of tips from the public and the source close to the investigation says a handful of those tips are being investigated as possibly substantive.

Now, today a coalition of civil rights groups gathered here in Los Angeles to show their support for Michael Jackson. They say he's being targeted because he's a successful African American with money. They say this is a case of extortion.

And today at that news conference a 22-year-old woman spoke and talked about a wonderful weekend she spent at Neverland eight years ago with the King of Pop.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DANIELLE CARR, JACKSON SUPPORTER: Well, when I went there it was on a Saturday morning. We visited his home theater. We went to his zoo that he has, his amusement park. We had an arcade, a full day of playing games in his arcade. We had a wonderful time and it was an innocent time. It was a time that kids would have and I have no problem sending my child over there.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

TUCHMAN: That woman, Danielle Carr, says she spent the weekend in a cabin, not in the same bedroom as Michael Jackson.

Meanwhile, we want to tell you that the father of the alleged victim in this case has filed a petition to get the mother to seek psychological evaluation. That father lost his custody of the child after he pleaded no contest to domestic battery charges during a divorce between the couple.

The father says he wants to get custody back, through the lawyer says that the mother is mentally incompetent and believes it's possible that she is lying about this case. The mother we have not been able to reach for comment.

Wolf, back to you.

BLITZER: Gary Tuchman with the latest on this very bizarre case. Gary, thanks for that.

Could al Qaeda survive without Osama bin Laden? Just ahead, I'll speak live with a terrorism expert, Brian Jenkins, on the current strength of the terror network.

And a major sports star testifying before a grand jury investigating a doping scandal. We'll tell you what Barry Bonds had to say.

And the fallout from a CIA officer's photo spread in "Vanity Fair." We'll tell you how it's playing right here in Washington.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Looking live here in Washington, the Pageant of Peace. The opening ceremony. It's happening right now, an annual celebration to kick off the holiday season.

The president and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree this hour. We'll have live coverage. That's coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In recent attacks against so-called soft targets, like the bombings in Istanbul, officials see the direct hand of al Qaeda. Would it make any difference if Osama bin Laden was, once and for all, removed from the picture?

In a "Newsday" op-ed piece earlier this week, one leading expert on terrorism argued not really. He's joining us now, the veteran terrorism analyst of Rand Corporation adviser, Brian Jenkins.

Brian, thanks so much for joining us.

Everyone assumes that the U.S. or its friends captured or killed Osama bin Laden, that would be a huge war in the war on terror.

BRIAN JENKINS, RAND CORPORATION: It would be a victory of sorts, but it wouldn't fundamentally end the terrorist threat. This is not some Hollywood action film where the bad guy bites the dust and the town is again safe.

The fact is rarely has the death of a terrorist leader led to the demise of a group. And where a group has fairly deep roots and somewhat broader base of support, the effect of the death or capture of a leader is even less.

BLITZER: Wouldn't -- would somebody else have the stature -- Ayman Zawahiri, the supposed No. 2, would he have the stature of Osama bin Laden to rally his followers?

JENKINS: Well, there's no question that Osama bin Laden is a charismatic figure. He's become an icon and is a source of inspiration.

But, you know, al Qaeda, itself, has changed a lot since 9/11. Operating in an increasingly hostile environment, the enterprise itself has decentralized and is now much more dependent on already dispersed Afghan veterans. In fact, a lot of people feel that bin Laden himself is no longer involved in a direct fashion in operations, but rather it remains simply a source of exhortation and inspiration.

BLITZER: A lot of these so-called terrorist cells out there, almost like independent contractors, not necessarily waiting for the green light but acting on their own, is that what you're suggesting?

JENKINS: They've gotten the green light. They have been told to go ahead and carry out actions when and where they can. They have taken their inspiration from September 11 and the subsequent terrorist attacks. And so they will continue this.

We also have to keep in mind that a lot of the groups that have affiliated themselves with al Qaeda that have drawn in its support and send their people to al Qaeda training camps and have carried out operations under al Qaeda's banner, nonetheless, have kept their own organizational structure. Some of them are new, some of them predate al Qaeda itself. They will continue.

BLITZER: We're hearing from our justice correspondent, Kelli Arena, that normally before major holidays, and we're approaching obviously Christmas right now, there seems to be a heightened threat here. There seems to be some chatter, some information on web sites that could arouse fear.

How concerned should the American public be right now?

JENKINS: Well, again, we've seen this before. The fact is, the majority of the attacks take place between May and November. That doesn't mean that we cannot see attacks during the holidays themselves.

But, again, you know, even the heightened possibility of attack somewhere in the world, or potentially even in this country, does not translate into a significantly increased risk for the individual American citizen.

BLITZER: As usual, giving us some good perspective on an awful subject, terrorism. Brian Jenkins, thanks very much. Welcome to Washington.

JENKINS: Thank you.

BLITZER: Up next, he's an MVP in the big leagues. But why does a home run slugger need to appear on the witness stand? It's a case with star athletes in the spotlight. We'll have details.

As she shied away from cameras her entire career, but now an undercover agent strikes a rather high-profile pose.

And the president takes part in a gala Pageant of Peace. We'll take you live here in Washington for the lighting of the national Christmas tree.

First, though, a quick look at some other news making headlines around the world.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): Israeli raid. Israel says it foiled plans for a suicide attack on an Israeli school. Police raided a West Bank mosque where the attack allegedly was being planned. They arrested two Palestinians. One was said to have been wearing an explosives belt.

Somber homecoming. The bodies of two Japanese diplomats killed in Iraq arrived in Tokyo. The diplomats were gunned down Saturday on their way to a conference on reconstruction.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I call on Hasa Mbasa (ph) to rise for sentencing.

BLITZER: Genocide verdict. A U.N. tribunal has sentenced two Rwandan journalists to prison. They convicted a newspaper editor and a radio news director of promoting genocide against minority Tutsis and politically moderate Hutus. A prison sentence also was imposed on a radio station executive.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The people of Liberia.

BLITZER: Most wanted. Interpol, the international police organization has put former Liberian president Charles Taylor on its most wanted list. He's accused of crimes against humanity. His departure from Liberia in August has restored a fragile peace there. After months of fighting, children are returning to school.

Royal welcome. Britain's Queen Elizabeth II was greeted with drums with her first visit to Nigeria since 1956. Her visit coincides with a summit. Ironically, a village market she visited wasn't real, it's the set for a BBC soap opera.

And that's our look around the world.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: The Christmas Pageant of Peace here in Washington on the mall. You're looking at live pictures. Shortly the president and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree. We'll go there live once that happens.

You're looking at Shirley Jones right now, by the way. She's the host of this annual event. In the meantime, let's check some other news. There was a high- profile appearance today before a grand jury investigating a California laboratory. San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds walked into the grand jury room, accompanied by an attorney.

CNN's Josie Burke is standing by with details -- Josie.

JOSIE BURKE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, Barry Bonds has been in that grand jury room for about three hours now and, according to his lawyer, he could be there for another hour or so.

Bonds is just the latest in a very long line of athletes who have been making their way here to the federal building in San Francisco for the past month or so on a weekly basis to testify before a grand jury.

But, unlike most of the other athletes, Bonds did not have to walk in the front door today. Instead, he was allowed to gain access to the building through an underground garage.

Because these proceedings in front of the grand jury are supposed to be secret and confidential, we're not exactly sure what questions Bonds is being asked, but he does have two connections to people believed to be targets of this probe.

The first is to Victor Conte, a man who heads a Bay Area laboratory called Balco that provides nutritional supplements. And Bonds has said in the past that he's gotten products from Balco.

The other is Greg Anderson, a Bay Area personal trainer who is the personal trainer for Barry Bonds, and he is also a long-time friend of the baseball superstar.

Two things, though, to keep in mind. One is that Bonds is not a target of this investigation, and also he has said in the past that he does not use steroids. And a couple weeks ago when he got his sixth MVP award, he said he actually welcomes the fact that baseball is going to continue testing for steroids because it will end some of the speculation -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Josie Burke, covering this important story for us. Josie, thank you very much.

The face of a CIA operative. The inside story of the face behind this picture, the one you're about to see -- there it is -- of Ambassador -- former U.S. Ambassador Joe Wilson and his wife.

And lighting up the season, the White House Pageant of Peace taking place right now here in Washington. Live performances, and we'll have remarks from the president of the United States just before he lights that tree.

All of that, you'll see it here. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK) BLITZER: We're standing by for the president and the first lady to light the national Christmas tree here in Washington at the Pageant of Peace. We'll go there live. That's coming up.

In the meantime, an undercover agent uncovered in the latest issue of "Vanity Fair" magazine. Howard Kurtz of CNN's "RELIABLE SOURCES" and the "Washington Post" looks at how this politically charged spy story leaped from Washington to Hollywood.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

HOWARD KURTZ, "RELIABLE SOURCES" HOST (voice-over): In the months since former Ambassador Joe Wilson emerged as one of President Bush's most prominent critics on Iraq, two mysteries have swirled around him.

One the flap over columnist Robert Novak reporting that two senior administration leaked word that Wilson's wife was a CIA operative.

And two, what in the world does this woman look like? We know her vitals: name, Valerie Plame, the mother of 3-year-old twins, 40, blonde, born in Alaska, went to Penn State, Wilson's third wife. We know she still works for the CIA. "Jane Bond," her husband calls her. We know they've been seen at parties around town, but Plame isn't doing any interviews.

As Wilson made clear to Tim Russert on "Meet the Press."

JOE WILSON, FORMER AMBASSADOR: My wife has made it very clear that -- she has authorized me to say this. She would rather chop off her right arm than say anything to the press. And she will not allow herself to be photographed.

KURTZ (on camera): Well, we certainly want Valerie Plame to have full use of both arms, but that leaves us with a dark secret, the visual anonymity of the most famous female spy since Mata Hari.

Every story needs a picture, something for television to show, something to break up all that newspaper type. Plame is a star, although she never set out to become one, and yet her image remains tantalizingly out of reach.

But, wait, "Vanity Fair" has come to the rescue.

(voice-over): Everybody poses for "Vanity Fair," From the Olsen twins and other teen idols to a shirtless George Clooney, to a certain president of the United States and his top aides.

And in the end, Valerie Plame did, too, joining her husband for a photo shoot and posing in their Jaguar.

Sure, she's wearing glasses and a scarf, but the CIA employee is no longer quite so under cover.

What about Wilson's earlier vow? He says he doesn't think the picture really identifies her and that the couple is not going into seclusion. But Slate magazine has now awarded Wilson its Whopper of the Week.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: CNN's Howard Kurtz, reporting for us on that.

Coming up here in Washington, the president and the first lady, they're at the national Pageant of Peace right now, but the first lady will be giving us a little tour of the Christmas tree and the other decorations inside the White House. That's coming up.

Also, live coverage of the president and the first lady lighting the national Christmas tree right now. Lone Star singing at this event here in Washington.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In just a minute or so we'll join the Christmas tree lighting festivities here in Washington on the mall.

Earlier, though, today the first lady, Laura Bush, gave us a look at the decorations inside the White House.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

LAURA BUSH, FIRST LADY: Welcome to the White House, and welcome to the magnificent holiday decorations that I'm so excited to be able to be able to show you today.

This year we chose the theme of season of stories. We picked our favorite books, and the White House florist and all the White House staff that build the Christmas decorations built all of these papier- mache storybook characters.

Right over here, we have "Frog and Toad Together," which a favorite book of mine to read to children when I was a school librarian.

On the mantle behind all of you is really my favorite book as a child myself, which is "Little Women."

We have Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys and then, finally, our newest huge best seller, "Harry Potter," which are the books I read this summer.

These are difficult times. These are very challenging times for all Americans, and we all need to remember that we have that strength of character that comes from being an American. And I want all people to remember that, but I especially wish that for my husband.

I ask all Americans to reach out to military families that you know who have someone, loved one, deployed overseas and give them special support and special care this holiday season, because the holidays are the most difficult when you are not with someone you love for some reason. Whether you've lost them in that terrorist attack or they've become a casualty of the war on terror or just because they are deployed somewhere else.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: The first lady earlier today at the White House. She's now at the Pageant of Peace here in Washington. The president is about to be introduced. He and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree.

Let's listen in.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: ... wonderful, wonderful pageant event.

Now the question for the children about something you have heard here tonight. Does anybody remember who was the first president to light the first national Christmas tree 80 years ago?

You're right, very good, it was, indeed, President Calvin Coolidge, and you also want to remember that since then every president has participated in this tree lighting. And that this great tradition continues again this evening as we welcome, once again, president and Mrs. Laura Bush here tonight.

So ladies and gentlemen, the president of the United States.

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Thank you all very much. Welcome to the Christmas Pageant of Peace. This evening, we continue a tradition in Washington, as we gather to light the national Christmas tree.

Tonight and throughout the Christmas season our thoughts turn to a star in the East, seen 20 centuries ago, and to a light that can guide us still.

Laura and I are so pleased to join you in this ceremony, and we thank you all for being here.

It's always good to see Santa. I know you've got a lot of commitments this time of year.

We also know how Santa gets around. He travels in the dark of night. He arrives unannounced. And he's gone before you know he was there.

Santa, I can assure you it's a lot easier on a flying sled than it is on Air Force One.

(LAUGHTER)

(APPLAUSE)

I want to thank Peter Nostrand, the chairman of the Christmas Pageant of Peace, and John Betchkal, the president. I want to thank very much Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton and her staff for helping put this fine event on. I want to thank all of the members of my Cabinet who are here. I appreciate Fran Mainella who's the director of the National Park Service. I want to thank all the National Park Service employees who work so hard on behalf of the American people.

(APPLAUSE)

I want to thank Father Klinewebber (ph) for his gracious offering of prayer. I appreciate the musicians -- fantastic job tonight. Thank you all for coming.

I want to thank the members of the board of the Christmas pageant a piece. I want to welcome all the children from the Boys and Girls Clubs from this region for being here.

Also with us this evening are military personnel...

(APPLAUSE)

... including some who have recently returned from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

(APPLAUSE)

I know your families are glad to have you back. They're proud of your service, and so is our country.

On behalf of all Americans, welcome home, and job well done.

(APPLAUSE)

We also honor all of our fellow Americans serving far away from home during the holidays. Separation from loved ones is especially difficult this time of year.

Our people in uniform can know that their families miss them and love them, that millions are praying for them, and that America is grateful for the men and women who serve and defend our country.

The story of Christmas is familiar to us all, and it still holds a sense of wonder and surprise.

When the good news came first to a young woman from Nazareth, her response was understandable. She asked, "How can this be?"

The news would bring difficulty to her family and suspension upon herself. Yet, Mary gave a reply: "Be it unto me according to thy word."

The way for a new king had been long, and the manner of his arrival was not as many had expected.

The king's first cries were heard by shepherds and cattle. He was raised by a carpenter's son. Yet this one humble life lifted the sights of humanity forever. And in his words we hear a voice like no other. Across the generations, the poor have heard words of hope; the proud have heard words of challenge; and the weak and the dying have heard words of assurance.

And mankind has been given a message first delivered by angels on a shepherd's field, "Fear not." As we near Christmas in a time of war, these words bring comfort.

We don't know all of God's ways. Yet, the Christmas story promises that God's purpose is justice, and his plan is peace.

At times, this belief is tested. During the Civil War, Longfellow wrote a poem that later became a part of a Christmas carol: "Hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, goodwill to men."

That poem also reminds us that hate is not the final word: "Then pealed the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead, nor doth he sleep. The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, goodwill to men."

And now, as an expression of our own hope for peace in this Christmas season, we light the national tree.

Maggie Steumpfle and Andre Joyner are with us here. They're members of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Laura and I would like to ask Maggie and Andre to come up, and we'll turn on the lights.

But I ask you all to join us in a national countdown, starting with five, four, three, two, one.

(APPLAUSE)

(MUSIC)

BLITZER: One of the truly great moments here in Washington every year, the president, the first lady and friends lighting the National Tree, the Christmas Pageant of Peace on the Mall in the nation's capital.

That's all the time we have tonight. "LOU DOBBS TONIGHT" starts right now.

TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com





Michael Jackson Case; Authorities Seize Files From Limbaugh's Doctors>


Aired December 4, 2003 - 17:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
WOLF BLITZER, CNN ANCHOR: Happening now, the worst fears come true, a U.S. federal prosecutor in Baltimore investigating illegal drug sales is found dead. We're about to get details at a news conference. We'll take it live.
Stand by for hard news on WOLF BLITZER REPORTS.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): Vanished, did his first victim tip off police?

SHIRLEY IVERSON, RODRIGUEZ' VICTIM: And something about it just really grabbed my attention.

BLITZER: Michael Jackson case, the father of another child comes forward, this time in support of the superstar.

After bin Laden, will killing the al Qaeda leader make any difference?

Who's pumped up? A grand jury asks a future hall of famer about steroids in sports.

Rush Limbaugh's records, the radio host says authorities have seized files from his doctors and he's not happy.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

ANNOUNCER: This is WOLF BLITZER REPORTS for Thursday, December 4, 2003.

BLITZER: An assistant United States attorney prosecuting a rapper on drug charges found dead with gunshot and stab wounds. We're standing by for a news conference in Baltimore, Maryland expected to start in the next several moments on the death of Jonathan Luna reported missing when he failed to show up for a trial earlier today. We'll have more on this developing story including the news conference in just a few moments.

First, let's move on to this. The man accused of kidnapping Dru Sjodin went to court today. Bond was set at $5 million for Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr., but attorneys say Rodriguez has agreed to remain in custody for his own safety.

CNN's Mike Brooks has been following today's developments. He's joining us now live -- Mike.

MIKE BROOKS, CNN LAW ENFORCEMENT CORRESPONDENT: Good evening, Wolf.

Investigators and prosecutors say they still are not at liberty to discuss specific evidence they have against Rodriguez as he made his initial court appearance this afternoon.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The State of North Dakota, Plaintiff versus Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr.

BROOKS (voice-over): New details were emerging about the investigation that led to his arrest.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Mr. Rodriguez, did you understand the charges read against you?

ALFONSO RODRIGUEZ, DEFENDANT: Yes.

BROOKS: Rodriguez, a convicted sex offender, is accused of kidnapping 22-year-old Dru Sjodin from the parking lot of the shopping mall where she worked.

Shirley Iverson says when she first heard news accounts of Sjodin's disappearance there were unsettling similarities to what happened nearly 30 years ago when she lived in Crookston, Minnesota when she was raped. That was Rodriguez' first of three sex-related convictions.

IVERSON: And something about it just really grabbed my attention and I looked at the information that was available on the Internet and something more grabbed my attention. There were just some things that in my stomach I thought that I needed to call the police in Grand Forks.

BROOKS: Iverson says she believes other women also contacted police before they arrested Rodriguez Monday. Investigators have been questioning Rodriguez but so far they say he's provided no information that could lead them to Sjodin. The missing woman's mother is asking for help from the Rodriguez family.

LINDA WALKER, DRU SJODIN'S MOTHER: That his mother please speak to her son and his sister to please speak to her brother and ask on the behalf of all of us the love that we have for Dru and the love from the community that we want her back in our arms.

BROOKS: Police and volunteers continue to search the bleak December landscape. The question sometimes unspoken can Dru Sjodin still be alive?

IVERSON: What I think he's shown is that he's capable of violent crimes. I think each of the women and testimony in the court proceedings have talked about fearing for their lives during their assault. LAURA BOUCHE, DRU SJODIN'S SORORITY SISTER: Yes, I'm very hopeful. We just pray and try to remain optimistic and to stay positive to send out good energy to Dru so when we find her that she'll know that we've been praying and thinking about her this whole time.

WALKER: We're very steadfast in the fact that Dru has a very strong spirit, a kind soul and we know that she has the strength and (unintelligible) to survive this situation.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BROOKS: Prosecutors say with the evidence they do have there is a substantial likelihood of conviction if it goes to trial. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 4th and arraignment is set for February 5th -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Mike Brooks thanks very much.

Shortly, we'll be speaking with the police chief of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Chief John Packett. We'll get to him shortly.

But let's move to our top story now, the death of that federal prosecutor in Baltimore, Maryland Jonathan Luna. We're joined now by Adam May of our CNN affiliate WJZ who's following this shocking story. Adam, tell us what you know.

Right now details just coming in here, Wolf. In fact, they're expected to hold a news conference here in the next 15 minutes, the U.S. attorneys, also the FBI and other agencies.

Here's what we can tell you that we know right now. Police and federal agents began their search for Jonathan Luna when he failed to show up to court here early this morning.

Right now there are investigators combing a crime scene in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, sources there telling us that Luna had been shot at least once and also stabbed multiple times.

Now this was supposed to be the fourth day of a trial against two men accused of running a very violent drug ring here in Baltimore City, right now authorities not saying if that case and Luna's murder are connected more information to come here in that news conference in the next few minutes -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Any fears earlier as far as you know, Adam that he was potentially in danger?

MAY: No indication of that right now, he had been with the U.S. Attorney's Office here for about four years. He's originally from North Carolina, had not been here in Baltimore all that long. Prior to this he gained some notoriety for a couple of sex offense cases but nothing very major -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Adam May from CNN affiliate WJZ thanks very much for that report. And we're standing by for that news conference in Baltimore from the U.S. attorney in Baltimore for the state of Maryland. We'll get some more details. That's coming up soon.

But let's go back to North Dakota right now, more on the missing 22-year-old woman Dru Sjodin. We're joined by the Grand Forks, North Dakota Police Chief John Packet. Chief, once again, thank you very much for joining us.

Did this woman, Shirley Iverson, who was raped by Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. more than 30 years ago or so or some 30 years ago or so did she provide information that led you to him?

CHIEF JOHN PACKETT, GRAND FORKS POLICE: I have no personal knowledge of her involvement in this case but peripherally it appears that she's been very instrumental in helping the investigators, yes, and it's one of those rare occasions where we have an opportunity to talk to victims, give us a little information on individuals like Mr. Rodriguez.

And it's the totality of that type of information from the past and what we've been able to gather specifically in cases like this that's allowed us to have days like today. There are certainly highs and lows.

You have the first appearance for bond setting but then you have weather setting in and a search for Dru and we haven't found her yet so it's definitely a day of highs and lows.

BLITZER: It's definitely starting to snow out there. That makes it more complicated doesn't it?

PACKETT: Yes, it certainly does but I think it reinforces that we're all resolute in finding Dru. We're still getting an awful lot of energy and enthusiasm from the searchers and from her family and that's what keeps us going in this endeavor.

We've definitely passed the 50-yard line on this case as we're not close enough to kick a field goal on it and we won't be satisfied with that. We're heading for the end zone and the end zone will be finding Dru and bringing her home to her family.

BLITZER: A couple of days ago when we spoke, chief, you thought she was still alive. Do you still believe that?

PACKETT: I'm as convinced today as I was a few days ago that that's our main goal. That's what keeps us going in this case. Those of us that have had the opportunity to interact with her family and those that know her have given us the enthusiasm we need that if anybody could withstand this ordeal she can and that's what drives us today. Even on a day like today I think we have to stay motivated and stay enthused and hopeful that that will be the case.

BLITZER: Is Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. the only suspect in this case? PACKETT: He is the only suspect in this case at this time as was indicated in court today and in documents that I'm sure that will be released in the near future that there's good probable cause that resulted in the search warrants, good probable cause that resulted in his arrest.

There's been three interviews that I'm aware of with Mr. Rodriguez in the last 12 to 16 hours that the positive sign there is he is talking to us. We are respectful of his counsel.

Whenever he invokes his rights we honor that but we're looking forward to continue to talk to him and the prosecutors move forward with this case to get additional information to bring Dru home.

BLITZER: Has he given you any leads where she might be?

PACKETT: I'm really not in a position to discuss exactly what has been discussed with Mr. Rodriguez but suffice it to say we're satisfied that we have a dialogue ongoing with him and we're hopeful that information will be provided in the near future that will be beneficial to finding where Dru is.

BLITZER: Well that's very encouraging the first confirmation, chief, that we're getting that he is at least cooperating a bit with you.

PACKETT: Yes. It's -- I feel it's very positive that we have a dialogue. He is communicating with us and I think with the advice of his counsel and the advice of family and certainly our encouragement of wanting to continue to talk to him I hope we can have a positive outcome.

BLITZER: Chief John Packett, Grand Forks Police Department, thanks very much chief for that. Good luck to you. Good luck to all the men and women who work with you and good luck in the search for Dru Sjodin.

PACKETT: Thank you, Wolf.

BLITZER: Let's move on. More crime elsewhere around the United States, truckers who drive Ohio's Interstate 270 are now being asked to watch for anything that might help police find out who has been shooting at cars in at least one school along one stretch of the highway.

CNN's Kris Osborn is joining us now. He's all over this story in Columbus, Ohio. What's the latest, Kris?

KRIS OSBORN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good evening to you, Wolf.

Well ever since those ballistic matches were announced a few days ago, investigators acknowledge progress has been, well frankly slow going. I asked one key member of the investigation not long ago are you close to an arrest and the answer I got was an emphatic no.

That is at this point they are not close to an arrest. That being said I spent part of the afternoon driving up and down I-270, that five-mile stretch in question of course, the location of so many of these shootings, mysterious, tough to explain shootings.

There were a lot of trucks on the road. Of course there was a warning today, an advisory sent out for truckers to be extra cautious, extra vigilant in the event that they might see something suspicious.

Also right nearby that segment of I-270 was the elementary school. We drove by the school. It is not very far from the highway and this point in question. There were some investigators going in and out of the school.

Now earlier the school was mentioned as a location where they were stepping up security. Well, today we learned it is now in addition to security it's one of the places where they're focusing their investigation.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CHIEF DEPUTY STEVE MARTIN, FRANKLIN COUNTY, OHIO SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT: Sheriffs and police personnel have met with school administration and students in an attempt to both reassure as well as seek information that relate to the identification of the person or persons responsible for the shot fired at the school in the early morning hours of November 11th.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

OSBORN: Also, Wolf, Chief Martin said in the unlikely event that there is another shooting, interesting they hadn't brought up the prospect of another shooting quite in this way before, if there is an unlikely event and there is another shooting he had some tips, some advisories, if you will, for those who might be shot. He said keep driving. Call 911 and, of course, notify authorities immediately -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Kris Osborn in Columbus with that thanks Kris very much. We'll continue to watch that story.

We're also standing by for a news conference in Baltimore, Maryland. The federal prosecutor who failed to show up at court today was found dead just a short time ago in nearby Pennsylvania. We'll bring it to you live as soon as it begins.

Also ahead, Rush Limbaugh accuses prosecutors of seizing his medical records from four doctors. We'll have a live report on this developing story.

New support for the King of Pop, hear from a young person who spent the night in Michael Jackson's home and is now speaking out in his defense. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: You're looking at a live picture from Baltimore, Maryland. We're expecting a news conference momentarily on the death of a federal prosecutor who failed to show up at a court trial earlier today. His body has now been found. We'll go to that news conference in Baltimore, a shocking story. We'll go there live as soon as it starts.

In the meantime, other news we're watching right now. Radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh today announced on the air authorities have seized his medical records from four doctors. Limbaugh recently returned to work after treatment for an addiction to painkillers.

Let's go live to our National Correspondent Susan Candiotti. She's following the story in Miami -- Susan.

SUSAN CANDIOTTI, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Wolf.

What's interesting here is that the Palm Beach County State Attorney's Office has never officially acknowledged that it is conducting a criminal investigation of Rush Limbaugh and his admitted drug use.

However, today investigators put into a public court file confirmation that they have conducted a search of some of Rush Limbaugh's doctors' offices within the last ten days.

Our sources tell us they went through four offices, at least three in Palm Beach County, and one in Los Angeles. Furthermore, this information that we just received on file in the Clerk's Office tells us that a state investigation shows what they refer to as doctor shopping on the part of Rush Limbaugh for controlled substances, more on that in a moment.

Just hours before that court filing, it was Mr. Limbaugh's attorney who first announced that these medical records were seized and a statement was read by the talk show host himself.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

RUSH LIMBAUGH, TALK SHOW HOST: What these records show is that I did suffer pain and had legitimate reasons for taking pain medication. I quote now from Mr. Black.

"Unfortunately, because of Mr. Limbaugh's prominence and well- known political opinions, he's being subjected to an invasion of privacy that no citizen of this republic should endure. So let us make our position clear."

(BREAKING NEWS)

BLITZER: And that was Rush Limbaugh. We're going to interrupt that report to go to Baltimore. We're now going to hear from the U.S. Attorney in Baltimore on the death of a federal prosecutor.

TOM DIBIAGIO, U.S. ATTORNEY: Prayers from all law enforcement go out to his family at this tragic time. Let there be no doubt, let there be no doubt that everyone in law enforcement, local police, state police, United States Marshals, ATF, FBI are united.

We will find out who did this and we are dedicated to bringing the persons responsible for this tragedy to justice. That's a commitment from me. That's a commitment from every law enforcement officer in the state of Maryland -- Jennifer.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Thank you, Tom. First, I want to start by expressing my sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Jonathan. He will be truly missed.

The FBI is aggressively investigating the circumstances surrounding Jonathan's death and we will continue our ongoing efforts with our partners in state, federal and local law enforcement to pursue (AUDIO GAP).

Since this is an ongoing investigation we are not able to comment and provide any details at this time. We appreciate your concern and will continue to provide you with information when we can.

In the meantime, we are asking that you help us in getting the word out to the viewing public for anyone who might have any information surrounding the circumstances of Jonathan's death to contact us. We can be reached. Our telephone number at the FBI is 410-265-8080 again, 410-265-8080.

DIBIAGIO: Following up on what Jennifer said I have another number which may be -- will be in place tomorrow. It's 443-436-7772. That's 443-436-7772 and I urge anyone out there with any information about this event that saw anything, heard anything that can assist law enforcement to please call the FBI, the United States Marshal Service, call the local police, call 911.

Finally, I want to thank the Pennsylvania State Police and the prosecutors in Lancaster County for their assistance in working with us to find out exactly what happened. Good evening.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Do you know when the last time was he was saw alive?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: May we get a photo of (unintelligible).

BLITZER: All right. The U.S. Attorney for the state of Maryland, Tom DiBiagio and a representative of the FBI speaking at a news conference in Baltimore, an incredibly sad story that we're following right now, a federal prosecutor Jonathan Luna, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Maryland was found shot, stabbed to death just a little while ago in nearby Pennsylvania.

He had been investigating a drug ring in the Baltimore, Maryland area. We don't know if there's any direct connection to that investigation. We do know that the U.S. Attorney and the FBI are now searching desperately for those responsible for the murder of Jonathan Luna.

CNN's Mike Brooks, our Law Enforcement Correspondent, has been doing some checking of his own into this story, a very sad story. "We will find out who did this. We are all dedicated to bringing that person to justice," the U.S. Attorney says. This hits right home with these guys doesn't it Mike? BROOKS: Absolutely, Wolf.

I mean you know you've got the law enforcement officers that are out there on the streets. They lock the people up. They put them in the criminal justice system and then this happens.

Again, we don't know who is responsible for this and I guarantee you as the U.S. Attorney said, the FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshal Service, state and local police they are putting out the dragnet tonight, if you will, just to coin a phrase but I tell you they're taking it very seriously and it's not very often you hear of a United States Attorney that is killed.

The circumstances surrounding it, I'll be very anxious to hear what they are and if, in fact, it is involved with this case or is involved with another case or possibly a case that is even pending trial right now.

We don't know for sure and law enforcement, again, they will be playing their cards very close to the vest with any facts that they have, particularly in a case of a United States Attorney -- Wolf.

BLITZER: We do know, don't we, that the law enforcement, the FBI, local law enforcement they're very anxious for the public to weigh in if they have any information whatsoever. That's why they're putting out these tip numbers immediately to try to get the assistance. Perhaps someone may have seen something that could be of help.

BROOKS: Exactly and I think as we go along in this investigation, depending on how it goes on the law enforcement side how many leads that they get, how many leads they're able to run out.

I think that they will be asking the public for more help. We might be able to get a description of the AUSA's car. We may be getting some more information of maybe his route of travel there and they want to get this information out to the public so, again, so they can get any substantial leads they can get to try to solve this case as quickly as possible.

BLITZER: The Assistant U.S. Attorney in Maryland Jonathan Luna, his body was found. It was riddled with gunshot and stab wounds. We'll continue to follow this shocking story for our viewers, bring you updates as they become available.

One more time, though, if you have any information the FBI wants to hear from you. I'll put the number up 410, that's the area code, 265-8080. We'll have more on this story as it becomes available.

The al Qaeda threat, can the terrorist network still operate if Osama bin Laden is captured or killed? The terrorism expert Brian Jenkins, he's joining me live. He's got some information on that.

Speaking out in support of Michael Jackson why are some choosing to support the pop star right now? Also happening right now a holiday celebration here in Washington, it's called the Pageant of Peace. The president and the first lady they're standing by.. They're getting ready to light the national Christmas tree. We'll have live coverage of that. That's coming up. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: There are new voices of support this afternoon for Michael Jackson as he faces child molestation charges. Our National Correspondent Gary Tuchman is in L.A. He's got details -- Gary.

GARY TUCHMAN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, we do but first authorities in Santa Barbara County are telling us their case against Michael Jackson is strong despite reports and some speculation that it's weakening amid a delay in the release of the formal charges.

A source close to the investigation tells us that "time is our ally. There is no rush to file these formal charges" but it will happen the week of December 15, which is a week and a half away.

They say that they've received dozens of tips from the public and the source close to the investigation says a handful of those tips are being investigated as possibly substantive.

Now, today a coalition of civil rights groups gathered here in Los Angeles to show their support for Michael Jackson. They say he's being targeted because he's a successful African American with money. They say this is a case of extortion.

And today at that news conference a 22-year-old woman spoke and talked about a wonderful weekend she spent at Neverland eight years ago with the King of Pop.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DANIELLE CARR, JACKSON SUPPORTER: Well, when I went there it was on a Saturday morning. We visited his home theater. We went to his zoo that he has, his amusement park. We had an arcade, a full day of playing games in his arcade. We had a wonderful time and it was an innocent time. It was a time that kids would have and I have no problem sending my child over there.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

TUCHMAN: That woman, Danielle Carr, says she spent the weekend in a cabin, not in the same bedroom as Michael Jackson.

Meanwhile, we want to tell you that the father of the alleged victim in this case has filed a petition to get the mother to seek psychological evaluation. That father lost his custody of the child after he pleaded no contest to domestic battery charges during a divorce between the couple.

The father says he wants to get custody back, through the lawyer says that the mother is mentally incompetent and believes it's possible that she is lying about this case. The mother we have not been able to reach for comment.

Wolf, back to you.

BLITZER: Gary Tuchman with the latest on this very bizarre case. Gary, thanks for that.

Could al Qaeda survive without Osama bin Laden? Just ahead, I'll speak live with a terrorism expert, Brian Jenkins, on the current strength of the terror network.

And a major sports star testifying before a grand jury investigating a doping scandal. We'll tell you what Barry Bonds had to say.

And the fallout from a CIA officer's photo spread in "Vanity Fair." We'll tell you how it's playing right here in Washington.

Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: Looking live here in Washington, the Pageant of Peace. The opening ceremony. It's happening right now, an annual celebration to kick off the holiday season.

The president and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree this hour. We'll have live coverage. That's coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In recent attacks against so-called soft targets, like the bombings in Istanbul, officials see the direct hand of al Qaeda. Would it make any difference if Osama bin Laden was, once and for all, removed from the picture?

In a "Newsday" op-ed piece earlier this week, one leading expert on terrorism argued not really. He's joining us now, the veteran terrorism analyst of Rand Corporation adviser, Brian Jenkins.

Brian, thanks so much for joining us.

Everyone assumes that the U.S. or its friends captured or killed Osama bin Laden, that would be a huge war in the war on terror.

BRIAN JENKINS, RAND CORPORATION: It would be a victory of sorts, but it wouldn't fundamentally end the terrorist threat. This is not some Hollywood action film where the bad guy bites the dust and the town is again safe.

The fact is rarely has the death of a terrorist leader led to the demise of a group. And where a group has fairly deep roots and somewhat broader base of support, the effect of the death or capture of a leader is even less.

BLITZER: Wouldn't -- would somebody else have the stature -- Ayman Zawahiri, the supposed No. 2, would he have the stature of Osama bin Laden to rally his followers?

JENKINS: Well, there's no question that Osama bin Laden is a charismatic figure. He's become an icon and is a source of inspiration.

But, you know, al Qaeda, itself, has changed a lot since 9/11. Operating in an increasingly hostile environment, the enterprise itself has decentralized and is now much more dependent on already dispersed Afghan veterans. In fact, a lot of people feel that bin Laden himself is no longer involved in a direct fashion in operations, but rather it remains simply a source of exhortation and inspiration.

BLITZER: A lot of these so-called terrorist cells out there, almost like independent contractors, not necessarily waiting for the green light but acting on their own, is that what you're suggesting?

JENKINS: They've gotten the green light. They have been told to go ahead and carry out actions when and where they can. They have taken their inspiration from September 11 and the subsequent terrorist attacks. And so they will continue this.

We also have to keep in mind that a lot of the groups that have affiliated themselves with al Qaeda that have drawn in its support and send their people to al Qaeda training camps and have carried out operations under al Qaeda's banner, nonetheless, have kept their own organizational structure. Some of them are new, some of them predate al Qaeda itself. They will continue.

BLITZER: We're hearing from our justice correspondent, Kelli Arena, that normally before major holidays, and we're approaching obviously Christmas right now, there seems to be a heightened threat here. There seems to be some chatter, some information on web sites that could arouse fear.

How concerned should the American public be right now?

JENKINS: Well, again, we've seen this before. The fact is, the majority of the attacks take place between May and November. That doesn't mean that we cannot see attacks during the holidays themselves.

But, again, you know, even the heightened possibility of attack somewhere in the world, or potentially even in this country, does not translate into a significantly increased risk for the individual American citizen.

BLITZER: As usual, giving us some good perspective on an awful subject, terrorism. Brian Jenkins, thanks very much. Welcome to Washington.

JENKINS: Thank you.

BLITZER: Up next, he's an MVP in the big leagues. But why does a home run slugger need to appear on the witness stand? It's a case with star athletes in the spotlight. We'll have details.

As she shied away from cameras her entire career, but now an undercover agent strikes a rather high-profile pose.

And the president takes part in a gala Pageant of Peace. We'll take you live here in Washington for the lighting of the national Christmas tree.

First, though, a quick look at some other news making headlines around the world.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER (voice-over): Israeli raid. Israel says it foiled plans for a suicide attack on an Israeli school. Police raided a West Bank mosque where the attack allegedly was being planned. They arrested two Palestinians. One was said to have been wearing an explosives belt.

Somber homecoming. The bodies of two Japanese diplomats killed in Iraq arrived in Tokyo. The diplomats were gunned down Saturday on their way to a conference on reconstruction.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I call on Hasa Mbasa (ph) to rise for sentencing.

BLITZER: Genocide verdict. A U.N. tribunal has sentenced two Rwandan journalists to prison. They convicted a newspaper editor and a radio news director of promoting genocide against minority Tutsis and politically moderate Hutus. A prison sentence also was imposed on a radio station executive.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The people of Liberia.

BLITZER: Most wanted. Interpol, the international police organization has put former Liberian president Charles Taylor on its most wanted list. He's accused of crimes against humanity. His departure from Liberia in August has restored a fragile peace there. After months of fighting, children are returning to school.

Royal welcome. Britain's Queen Elizabeth II was greeted with drums with her first visit to Nigeria since 1956. Her visit coincides with a summit. Ironically, a village market she visited wasn't real, it's the set for a BBC soap opera.

And that's our look around the world.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: The Christmas Pageant of Peace here in Washington on the mall. You're looking at live pictures. Shortly the president and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree. We'll go there live once that happens.

You're looking at Shirley Jones right now, by the way. She's the host of this annual event. In the meantime, let's check some other news. There was a high- profile appearance today before a grand jury investigating a California laboratory. San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds walked into the grand jury room, accompanied by an attorney.

CNN's Josie Burke is standing by with details -- Josie.

JOSIE BURKE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Wolf, Barry Bonds has been in that grand jury room for about three hours now and, according to his lawyer, he could be there for another hour or so.

Bonds is just the latest in a very long line of athletes who have been making their way here to the federal building in San Francisco for the past month or so on a weekly basis to testify before a grand jury.

But, unlike most of the other athletes, Bonds did not have to walk in the front door today. Instead, he was allowed to gain access to the building through an underground garage.

Because these proceedings in front of the grand jury are supposed to be secret and confidential, we're not exactly sure what questions Bonds is being asked, but he does have two connections to people believed to be targets of this probe.

The first is to Victor Conte, a man who heads a Bay Area laboratory called Balco that provides nutritional supplements. And Bonds has said in the past that he's gotten products from Balco.

The other is Greg Anderson, a Bay Area personal trainer who is the personal trainer for Barry Bonds, and he is also a long-time friend of the baseball superstar.

Two things, though, to keep in mind. One is that Bonds is not a target of this investigation, and also he has said in the past that he does not use steroids. And a couple weeks ago when he got his sixth MVP award, he said he actually welcomes the fact that baseball is going to continue testing for steroids because it will end some of the speculation -- Wolf.

BLITZER: Josie Burke, covering this important story for us. Josie, thank you very much.

The face of a CIA operative. The inside story of the face behind this picture, the one you're about to see -- there it is -- of Ambassador -- former U.S. Ambassador Joe Wilson and his wife.

And lighting up the season, the White House Pageant of Peace taking place right now here in Washington. Live performances, and we'll have remarks from the president of the United States just before he lights that tree.

All of that, you'll see it here. Stay with us.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK) BLITZER: We're standing by for the president and the first lady to light the national Christmas tree here in Washington at the Pageant of Peace. We'll go there live. That's coming up.

In the meantime, an undercover agent uncovered in the latest issue of "Vanity Fair" magazine. Howard Kurtz of CNN's "RELIABLE SOURCES" and the "Washington Post" looks at how this politically charged spy story leaped from Washington to Hollywood.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

HOWARD KURTZ, "RELIABLE SOURCES" HOST (voice-over): In the months since former Ambassador Joe Wilson emerged as one of President Bush's most prominent critics on Iraq, two mysteries have swirled around him.

One the flap over columnist Robert Novak reporting that two senior administration leaked word that Wilson's wife was a CIA operative.

And two, what in the world does this woman look like? We know her vitals: name, Valerie Plame, the mother of 3-year-old twins, 40, blonde, born in Alaska, went to Penn State, Wilson's third wife. We know she still works for the CIA. "Jane Bond," her husband calls her. We know they've been seen at parties around town, but Plame isn't doing any interviews.

As Wilson made clear to Tim Russert on "Meet the Press."

JOE WILSON, FORMER AMBASSADOR: My wife has made it very clear that -- she has authorized me to say this. She would rather chop off her right arm than say anything to the press. And she will not allow herself to be photographed.

KURTZ (on camera): Well, we certainly want Valerie Plame to have full use of both arms, but that leaves us with a dark secret, the visual anonymity of the most famous female spy since Mata Hari.

Every story needs a picture, something for television to show, something to break up all that newspaper type. Plame is a star, although she never set out to become one, and yet her image remains tantalizingly out of reach.

But, wait, "Vanity Fair" has come to the rescue.

(voice-over): Everybody poses for "Vanity Fair," From the Olsen twins and other teen idols to a shirtless George Clooney, to a certain president of the United States and his top aides.

And in the end, Valerie Plame did, too, joining her husband for a photo shoot and posing in their Jaguar.

Sure, she's wearing glasses and a scarf, but the CIA employee is no longer quite so under cover.

What about Wilson's earlier vow? He says he doesn't think the picture really identifies her and that the couple is not going into seclusion. But Slate magazine has now awarded Wilson its Whopper of the Week.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: CNN's Howard Kurtz, reporting for us on that.

Coming up here in Washington, the president and the first lady, they're at the national Pageant of Peace right now, but the first lady will be giving us a little tour of the Christmas tree and the other decorations inside the White House. That's coming up.

Also, live coverage of the president and the first lady lighting the national Christmas tree right now. Lone Star singing at this event here in Washington.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

BLITZER: In just a minute or so we'll join the Christmas tree lighting festivities here in Washington on the mall.

Earlier, though, today the first lady, Laura Bush, gave us a look at the decorations inside the White House.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

LAURA BUSH, FIRST LADY: Welcome to the White House, and welcome to the magnificent holiday decorations that I'm so excited to be able to be able to show you today.

This year we chose the theme of season of stories. We picked our favorite books, and the White House florist and all the White House staff that build the Christmas decorations built all of these papier- mache storybook characters.

Right over here, we have "Frog and Toad Together," which a favorite book of mine to read to children when I was a school librarian.

On the mantle behind all of you is really my favorite book as a child myself, which is "Little Women."

We have Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys and then, finally, our newest huge best seller, "Harry Potter," which are the books I read this summer.

These are difficult times. These are very challenging times for all Americans, and we all need to remember that we have that strength of character that comes from being an American. And I want all people to remember that, but I especially wish that for my husband.

I ask all Americans to reach out to military families that you know who have someone, loved one, deployed overseas and give them special support and special care this holiday season, because the holidays are the most difficult when you are not with someone you love for some reason. Whether you've lost them in that terrorist attack or they've become a casualty of the war on terror or just because they are deployed somewhere else.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

BLITZER: The first lady earlier today at the White House. She's now at the Pageant of Peace here in Washington. The president is about to be introduced. He and the first lady will be lighting the national Christmas tree.

Let's listen in.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: ... wonderful, wonderful pageant event.

Now the question for the children about something you have heard here tonight. Does anybody remember who was the first president to light the first national Christmas tree 80 years ago?

You're right, very good, it was, indeed, President Calvin Coolidge, and you also want to remember that since then every president has participated in this tree lighting. And that this great tradition continues again this evening as we welcome, once again, president and Mrs. Laura Bush here tonight.

So ladies and gentlemen, the president of the United States.

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Thank you all very much. Welcome to the Christmas Pageant of Peace. This evening, we continue a tradition in Washington, as we gather to light the national Christmas tree.

Tonight and throughout the Christmas season our thoughts turn to a star in the East, seen 20 centuries ago, and to a light that can guide us still.

Laura and I are so pleased to join you in this ceremony, and we thank you all for being here.

It's always good to see Santa. I know you've got a lot of commitments this time of year.

We also know how Santa gets around. He travels in the dark of night. He arrives unannounced. And he's gone before you know he was there.

Santa, I can assure you it's a lot easier on a flying sled than it is on Air Force One.

(LAUGHTER)

(APPLAUSE)

I want to thank Peter Nostrand, the chairman of the Christmas Pageant of Peace, and John Betchkal, the president. I want to thank very much Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton and her staff for helping put this fine event on. I want to thank all of the members of my Cabinet who are here. I appreciate Fran Mainella who's the director of the National Park Service. I want to thank all the National Park Service employees who work so hard on behalf of the American people.

(APPLAUSE)

I want to thank Father Klinewebber (ph) for his gracious offering of prayer. I appreciate the musicians -- fantastic job tonight. Thank you all for coming.

I want to thank the members of the board of the Christmas pageant a piece. I want to welcome all the children from the Boys and Girls Clubs from this region for being here.

Also with us this evening are military personnel...

(APPLAUSE)

... including some who have recently returned from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

(APPLAUSE)

I know your families are glad to have you back. They're proud of your service, and so is our country.

On behalf of all Americans, welcome home, and job well done.

(APPLAUSE)

We also honor all of our fellow Americans serving far away from home during the holidays. Separation from loved ones is especially difficult this time of year.

Our people in uniform can know that their families miss them and love them, that millions are praying for them, and that America is grateful for the men and women who serve and defend our country.

The story of Christmas is familiar to us all, and it still holds a sense of wonder and surprise.

When the good news came first to a young woman from Nazareth, her response was understandable. She asked, "How can this be?"

The news would bring difficulty to her family and suspension upon herself. Yet, Mary gave a reply: "Be it unto me according to thy word."

The way for a new king had been long, and the manner of his arrival was not as many had expected.

The king's first cries were heard by shepherds and cattle. He was raised by a carpenter's son. Yet this one humble life lifted the sights of humanity forever. And in his words we hear a voice like no other. Across the generations, the poor have heard words of hope; the proud have heard words of challenge; and the weak and the dying have heard words of assurance.

And mankind has been given a message first delivered by angels on a shepherd's field, "Fear not." As we near Christmas in a time of war, these words bring comfort.

We don't know all of God's ways. Yet, the Christmas story promises that God's purpose is justice, and his plan is peace.

At times, this belief is tested. During the Civil War, Longfellow wrote a poem that later became a part of a Christmas carol: "Hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, goodwill to men."

That poem also reminds us that hate is not the final word: "Then pealed the bells more loud and deep, God is not dead, nor doth he sleep. The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, goodwill to men."

And now, as an expression of our own hope for peace in this Christmas season, we light the national tree.

Maggie Steumpfle and Andre Joyner are with us here. They're members of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Laura and I would like to ask Maggie and Andre to come up, and we'll turn on the lights.

But I ask you all to join us in a national countdown, starting with five, four, three, two, one.

(APPLAUSE)

(MUSIC)

BLITZER: One of the truly great moments here in Washington every year, the president, the first lady and friends lighting the National Tree, the Christmas Pageant of Peace on the Mall in the nation's capital.

That's all the time we have tonight. "LOU DOBBS TONIGHT" starts right now.

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