Gary McKinnon refused extradition appeal
Gary McKinnon refused extradition appeal
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Friday, 09, Oct 2009 04:47
By Richard James.
Computer hacker Gary McKinnon has been refused permission to appeal against the decision to extradite him to the United States.
The 43-year-old has been accused by the US authorities of breaking into confidential military computers.
Mr McKinnon, who suffers from Asperger's Syndrome, has claimed however he was simply looking for information on UFOs.
Today's ruling refusing him permission to appeal to the newly created UK supreme court is the latest in a series of set-backs for Mr McKinnon.
Back in July, he lost in his attempts to have his extradition overturned.
Home secretary Alan Johnson met with three senior MPs on Thursday who are calling for the extradition to be halted.
Mr Johnson and the Home Office, however, have claimed they are powerless to halt the process.
The 43-year-old could face up to 60 years in prison if tried and found guilty in America.
Mark Lever, chief executive of the National Autistic Society, commented: "The NAS has been campaigning to ensure that Gary's Asperger syndrome is taken into account in the decision over his extradition. We are very disappointed by today's decision and feel hugely sympathetic towards Gary and his family who have been living under extreme stress for some time.
People with Asperger syndrome are often much more vulnerable than appearances would suggest and can be highly susceptible to additional mental health problems. We will continue to offer advice and information on the condition to those involved with Gary's case."