Raven 23: How the Department of Justice Betrayed American Heroes

Raven 23 reveals the shocking story of how four decorated American veterans were wrongfully convicted of war crimes in Iraq by the U.S. government. Working as private military contractors with Blackwater, these men became scapegoats in a political scheme designed to appease foreign leaders.

Based on journalist Gina Keating’s investigation, Raven 23 uncovers how four men, serving as personal security contractors in one of the world’s most dangerous cities, were convicted of killing civilians during a deadly firefight. Their trial became an international spectacle, marked by misconduct from both the prosecutor and the court. These men spent six years in federal prison while Keating, their families, and a growing group of supporters— including U.S. Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth—fought tirelessly for their release, ultimately securing pardons from President Donald J. Trump in 2020.

The incident in Nisour Square remains one of the most controversial chapters of the Iraq War. In 2007, Blackwater contractors fired into a crowd of civilians, killing 14 and injuring 17. Official accounts claimed the shooting was unprovoked, but the Blackwater team maintained they were ambushed. While initial investigations by the U.S. State Department and Army cleared them of wrongdoing, the U.S. government caved to pressure from the Iraqi government and pushed forward with criminal charges. This marked the beginning of a 13-year saga that wasted tens of millions of taxpayer dollars and three trials to sell a false narrative: that these men were monsters who deserved a lifetime in prison.

Keating’s investigation exposed the truth: the Raven 23 team was attacked by insurgents and acted within the rules of engagement. The charges against them were fabricated to appease foreign governments, and the Justice Department knew it.

At the start of her investigation, Keating thought she understood the system. The corruption, abuse of power, and malice she uncovered shattered her perception of American institutions.