A freelance reporter recently disclosed details of an interview he conducted with the suspect believed to be responsible for the New Orleans attack. The interview took place in 2015 when the journalist was working on a story for his college newspaper at Georgia State University.
The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, had served in the US Army from 2007 to 2020, both in active duty and reserve roles. During the interview, Jabbar expressed his challenges in transitioning from military to civilian life, particularly in navigating the complexities of Veteran Affairs benefits.
Jabbar voiced his frustration with the intricate nature of VA programs, highlighting the difficulties faced by many veterans in understanding the bureaucratic processes. The journalist noted that Jabbar struggled with communication issues, stemming from the unique jargon and lexicon acquired during his military service.
According to the journalist, Jabbar emphasized the significance of meticulous paperwork in accessing vital benefits, citing the potential consequences of missing signatures or documents. Despite these challenges, the journalist described Jabbar as composed, reserved, and reflective during the interview.
The journalist recalled Jabbar's calm demeanor and distant attitude, which he attributed to the veteran's past deployments and experiences. Notably, the journalist did not observe any concerning behavior or red flags during the interaction with Jabbar.
The insights from this interview shed light on the personal struggles and experiences of individuals transitioning from military service to civilian life. The journalist's account provides valuable context to better understand the complexities faced by veterans in accessing essential services and support systems.
