In a highly-publicized trial, a federal jury has found Stephen Tyler Bieneman not guilty of assaulting a woman at the U.S. research station in Antarctica. The case gained significant attention due to reports of harassment and assault at the station, which have led to increased scrutiny of the facility.

The jury deliberated for 1-1/2 hours before reaching their verdict, causing Bieneman to break down in tears of relief. He was charged with misdemeanor assault in connection with an incident that took place last November at McMurdo Station. Throughout the trial, Bieneman maintained his innocence, stating that he did not initiate the incident or harm the woman involved.

Outside the courtroom, Bieneman expressed the toll the trial has taken on his reputation. "It's taken a huge toll on my reputation," he said. His attorney, Birney Bervar, stated that the verdict vindicated his client.

The trial took place amidst an ongoing investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment and assault at McMurdo Station. In August, an Associated Press investigation revealed a pattern of women at the station having their claims minimized by their employers, putting them and others in further danger. As a result, the watchdog office overseeing the National Science Foundation has expanded its investigative mission to include alleged crimes such as sexual assault and stalking. Last week, investigators were sent to McMurdo to further investigate the claims.

During the trial, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mohammad Khatib argued that Bieneman had assaulted the woman by pinning her down and placing his shin across her throat, preventing her from breathing. Khatib warned the jurors that Bieneman could have seriously injured or even killed the woman. In his closing argument, Khatib painted a picture of a dangerous situation that unfolded that night.

However, Bieneman, a field safety coordinator with training in searches and rescues, testified that the woman had provoked him. He claimed that she had grabbed his arms and fell onto her back while holding on to him, using her strength to prevent him from retrieving his nametag. He denied placing his shin on her neck and insisted that he was trying his hardest not to hurt her.

The trial also included testimony from Dr. Christopher Martinez, the physician who examined the woman after the incident. He expressed doubts regarding her claims of assault, leading to further questions about the validity of the accusations against Bieneman.

Following the incident, Bieneman was sent to a remote icefield to protect the safety of a professor and three young graduate students. He remained there for a full week after a warrant for his arrest was issued. The professor later filed a complaint, stating that Bieneman was domineering and critical towards the female graduate students. The professor was surprised that Bieneman had been assigned to their team despite being under investigation.

The National Science Foundation, which oversees the U.S. Antarctic Program, declined to answer questions about why Bieneman was sent into a critical safety role while under investigation. This decision has raised further concerns about decision-making within the program.

Bervar, Bieneman's attorney, criticized the scrutiny surrounding his client, arguing that it unfairly led to his arrest and trial. On the other hand, Assistant U.S. Attorney Khatib expressed disappointment with the verdict, stating that they believed they had a strong case against Bieneman.

The trial has drawn attention to the ongoing issues of harassment and assault at McMurdo Station, highlighting the need for further investigation and action to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals on the premises.