Oklahoma soldier convicted of killing Iraqi wins early parole

An Oklahoma soldier convicted of killing an Iraqi thought to be an al Qaeda operative has won early release from prison.

1st Lt. Michael Behenna was convicted of a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice Article 118, unpremeditated murder, and sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2009.

After learning of exculpatory evidence that was not presented at trial, a military panel reduced his sentence to 20 years.

The Army's Clemency and Parole Board subsequently reduced it to 15 years, but the Army still refused to overturn the conviction or grant a new trial.

Wednesday, Lt. Behenna learned he had been granted early release.

His fiancé, Shannon Wahl, tells KRMG they will continue the fight to have his conviction overturned.

Hear our exclusive interview with Shannon here.

Governor Mary Fallin issued the following statement:

"I am glad this long ordeal has finally come to an end for Michael Behenna and his family. Michael went to Iraq to serve his nation and to defend liberty both here and abroad. Instead, he found himself mourning the loss of his friends from the inside of a cell.

"I believe the Army acted appropriately and compassionately in offering him parole."