Sister's heartache over extradition threat (From Western Telegraph)

Sister's heartache over extradition threat

A Haverfordwest woman has been shocked to learn her brother could be extradited at a moments notice to face a murder trial in America.

Fatima Howells brother, Christopher St John, is in Cardiff Prison awaiting a decision on his appeal against extradition. The decision is in the hands of Home Secretary, David Blunkett having already been turned down by the House of Lords.

Mr St John, aged 45, is accused of murdering his American wifes uncle during an argument in Pennsylvania in May 2000.

He was arrested from Mrs Howells home in August 2000 on an American charge of first degree murder. Late last year, he was transferred from Brixton Prison to Cardiff Prison to make it easier for family visits.

Mr St John, a father of four, has a history of poor health and is expected to undergo a heart by-pass operation soon after an appointment on January 23rd.

If the Home Secretary refuses the appeal, Mr St Johns solicitors, Leo Abse and Cohen, intend to take the case to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg. However, extradition proceedings would begin immediately, leaving Mr St John in an American prison during the lengthy appeal.

A Home Office spokesman said: As soon as all the processes have been gone through, extradition will begin as soon as possible.

Andrew Shanahan, a partner in Leo Abse and Cohen, is appealing under the Human Rights Act. He said: Our grounds are that the British courts did not properly apply the Human Rights Act. They approved Mr St Johns extradition to a state which applies the death penalty and where we believe he would receive an unfair hearing.

Mrs Howells said: He can be extradited without the family knowing, without the solicitors knowing. They dont have to apply to the courts. I manage to visit Chris once a fortnight in Cardiff. Hes trying to deal with things but on the last three visits he just cried. I dont know what to do, its so upsetting, she said

Mrs Howells health has also deteriorated during the time her brother has been in prison. Her diabetes, epilepsy and heart problems have all worsened. Mr St Johns brother, Jeremy, who lives in Cardiff, has suffered a stroke which he puts down to the stress of the situation.

If extradition is ordered, Leo Abse and Cohen intend to apply for a respite on health grounds. If this fails, Mr St John will face trial in America where legal representation will be appointed on his behalf and where the jury, rather than the judge, decide on the sentence.

Mrs Howells said: Even if he doesnt get the death sentence, he wont make it. He will end up dying in prison over there.