Opening statements set in Fort Hood bomb plot case

WACO, Texas (AP) -- Opening statements are set to be delivered in the trial of a soldier accused of planning to bomb a restaurant frequented by Fort Hood troops in Texas.

Pfc. Naser Jason Abdo faces up to life in prison if convicted of attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and other charges.

Abdo has been accused of spitting blood on authorities while in custody and was wearing a mask Monday during jury selection in the Waco courtroom.

Abdo is a Muslim soldier who was AWOL from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, when he was arrested last summer at a motel in Killeen, near Fort Hood. Authorities searched his backpack and motel room, and say they found ingredients for an explosive device. Abdo reportedly said he wanted to avenge the war in Afghanistan.