(Seoul)  --  A 29-year-old American who allegedly crossed into North Korea illegally in January will face trial in the reclusive state.
   The North Korean news agency has identified the man as Aijalon Mahli Gomes, adding that his "crime has been confirmed."  Gomes is reportedly from Boston.
   Reports from South Korea contend the man being held crossed over into the communist north because he no longer wanted to live in the capitalist world.
   Swedish diplomats representing the interest of the U.S. were allowed to visit the detainee earlier this month.
   In the past, prisoners have often been used as bargaining chips for North Korea, or simply released months after their capture.
   Last year, a visit by former President Bill Clinton led to the release of two U.S. journalists.


   (Copyright 2010 by VERTEXNews/Newsroom Solutions)