UNN

David Shepherd Arrested

Shiloh (RKG) - Captain David Shepherd was arrested yesterday by the King’s Own Guardsmen at his apartment in downtown Shiloh on charges of espionage and high treason. In addition to his duties as the press liaison officer for the military, Captain Shepherd serves as counsel to King Silas. Considered to be a trusted member of Silas’s inner circle, the allegations that he has been spying against Gilboa caused shock waves across the nation.

Today, Unity Hall released an official statement:

Citizens of Gilboa, information concerning Captain David Shepherd’s activities prior to the events leading up to the cease-fire with Gath has come to light, and has raised serious questions as to Captain Shepherd’s loyalties. We, as a nation, cannot let our affection for the Captain interfere with the public good, and must take the legitimate information into account. Therefore, a trial will take place in the Court of King Silas, on the charges of Treason and Conspiracy to Commit Espionage, where this information will be presented into the public record and Captain Shepherd will have opportunity to defend himself.

According to a spokesman for Gilboan Military Intelligence, Captain Shepherd has been just one part of a larger investigation of the Gilboan military and government. When asked if this was in response to the investigation of General Linus Abner, the spokesman made clear that that inquiry had been officially closed noting that the general had died of medical complications as a result of the Plague.

The Shepherd Family are no strangers to courtroom controversy or the political spotlight – brother Ethan Shepherd was sentenced to a short prison term and psychological evaluation after his role in the infamous Port Prosperity uprising. In contrast, both David’s father, Judah Shepherd, and brother, Eli Shepherd, were killed in battle during the war with Gath.

Ironically, Captain Shepherd is accused of providing vital military information and state secrets to the Sons of Moab, a notorious group of Gath hardliners who are in opposition of both Gilboan and Gath authorities with the purpose of bringing the countries closer to an ongoing conflict. Connections to the terrorist group The Brotherhood, have been refuted, although the groups seem to have worked together at certain points since the cease fire between the two nations.

Prince Jack Benjamin, acting in his capacity as the interim Minister of Information since the untimely death of Katrina Ghent, intercepted the information implicating Captain Shepherd. Therefore, as is compliant with existing laws, the Prince will serve as the Royal Prosecutor in the case.

At the daily Unity Hall press briefing, Minister Forsythe dodged questions about the possibility of Captain Shepherd’s arrest being an elaborate hoax. “The information received has been verified by outside sources.” Press Minister Forsythe answered. “Unfortunately, it seems very real.”

When asked if, upon exoneration, Captain Shepherd would continue to act as the King’s advisor, the Press Minister had no comment.

When asked about how Princess Michelle, recently revealed to be dating Shepherd, reacted to the news, the Press Minister also had no comment.

The trial date is set for two weeks from today. If convicted, Captain Shepherd, who by press time could not be reached for comment, faces the death penalty.