US requests Polanski extradition

23/10/09 13:44 CET

Justice

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The United States have formally asked Switzerland to extradite Roman Polanski so that he may be sentenced for having unlawful sex with a minor.

The Swiss justice department said it would hear Polanski’s lawyers before deciding whether to extradite him, adding that he could appeal.

The oscar-winning film director was arrested last month at the request of the US as he flew into Switzerland to collect an award.

He fled California in 1977, whilst awaiting sentence for having unlawful sex with a 13 year old girl.

The complex extradition process could take months or even years to complete if Polanski decides to challenge it.

The 76-year old was refused bail by a Swiss court this week, and would be held in custody during the appeal process.