In a historic decision, three former detainees of Iraq’s Abu Ghraib prison were awarded $42 million by a U.S. jury, holding Virginia-based defense contractor CACI Premier Technology accountable for their mistreatment. The plaintiffs, Suhail Al Shimari, Salah Al-Ejaili, and Asa’ad Al-Zubae, alleged that CACI interrogators contributed to the abuse they endured while detained in 2003-2004. Each plaintiff was awarded $3 million in compensatory damages and $11 million in punitive damages.
The case focused on the role of CACI employees who, according to the plaintiffs, worked alongside the U.S. military to “soften up” detainees through abusive tactics. Al Shimari testified to being beaten and shocked, while Al-Ejaili described stress positions and sleep deprivation, and Al-Zubae detailed threats and physical intimidation with dogs. Their testimonies highlighted the severe psychological and physical trauma they continue to suffer.
CACI’s defense argued that any responsibility for detainee treatment rested solely with the military. They contended that their employees were under military control at the facility, invoking the “borrowed servants” doctrine to argue against liability. However, the plaintiffs’ lawyers presented evidence, including reports from retired Army generals, that CACI’s staff participated in the abusive environment at Abu Ghraib.
Human rights advocates called the verdict a powerful reminder of accountability, with Al-Ejaili stating, “This victory is a shining light for everyone who has been oppressed.” The case sets a precedent for the accountability of private contractors operating in conflict zones.
