Again, a magistrate exclaimed, "Why do you tell such wicked lies against witnesses?"

But it was not clear how many of them would vote with Democrats against witnesses.

And he said sentiment against witnesses was growing among Democrats.

In interviews with several people in the industry, however, the charge was frequently made against witnesses for the opposing side.

Those minded to take reprisals against witnesses on account of the evidence that they have given can also be punished for contempt.

But prosecutors can and do use other avenues to gather evidence against witnesses who have use immunity.

As a result, the department instituted strict new policies for handling threats against witnesses.

Kessler has had several run-ins with the law; she was convicted of drug charges, threats against witnesses, and assault.

The three years leading up to the trial had been marked by death threats against prosecutors, judges and witnesses, forcing several to seek asylum overseas.

In addition, he said, threats have been made against witnesses, family members and hospital workers who treated the victims.