San Diego ? An investigating officer has recommended dismissing murder charges against a Marine accused in the slayings of three Iraqi men in a squad action that killed 24 civilians in Haditha, according to a report released Tuesday.

The government had not produced enough evidence to show that Lance Cpl. Justin L. Sharratt executed the three men, Lt. Col. Paul Ware said in a report.

The recommendation is nonbinding.

A final decision about whether Sharratt should stand trial will be made by Lt. Gen. James Mattis, the commanding general overseeing the case.

Sharratt, of Canonsburg, Pa., is one of three enlisted men accused in the deaths of 24 Iraqi men, women and children on Nov. 19, 2005.