Despite their client jumping bail in March 2010, and disappearing into the ether, lawyers acting on behalf of the convicted ETA killer, Jose Ignacio de Juana Chaos, continued “with instructions” in the appeal against his extradition to Spain to face a charge of glorifying terrorism. Two years later, and Belfast High Court has dismissed that appeal. [Where are they sending the bill? – Ed] Good question. From the BBC report
Judges ruled that while the European Arrest Warrant was “unquestionably imperfect”, it was nevertheless valid.
In their view de Juana’s surrender to Spanish authorities would advance the aims of promoting public safety, preventing disorder or crime and protecting the rights and freedom of others under the European Convention on Human Rights.
Issues about his mental health can be raised before the Spanish judicial authorities, the court held.
Mr Justice McCloskey said: “We find that none of the grounds of appeal possesses any merit. We dismiss the appeal accordingly.
“It follows that the appellant is now liable to be extradited to Spain pursuant to and in accordance with the Recorder’s order.”
The judge added: “He may also be vulnerable to prosecution in this jurisdiction for breaching the terms of the bail order on which he was released following the extradition order at first instance.”
De Juana’s legal team later confirmed they will now consider whether to try to take their challenge to the Supreme Court in London.
Of course, before he can be extradited, they have to find him again. [Have they checked his Dublin address? – Ed] Probably… And there have since been some “carefully choreographed” events in Spain.
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