Where in the World is Manuel Noriega? U.S. Supreme Court Hears Extradition Stay Request
An old name is turning up in the U.S. mainstream media as the U.S. Supreme Court wrangles over granting a stay of extradition for a relatively well-known inmate scheduled for release from a Florida jail. Manuel Noriega, the infamous Panamanian leader nabbed by the U.S. during America’s 1989 invasion of Panama, has been held in the U.S. on drug charges ever since. His upcoming release has prompted a huge controversy over exactly how that release is going to be accomplished.
A CNN report shows Noriega is now wanted in French court for laundering money through French banks. He also faces arrest in Panama, but according to reports about his defense, he would like to be sent there.
Reports show Noriega has asked the U.S. to help battle his extradition to France over allegations that the French will not treat him as a prisoner of war according to the Geneva Convention.
Confusing reports from the French Foreign ministry have added to the fervor. French officials have said that while Noriega will be treated as a prisoner of war, he will not have that official status.
Now Noriega wants the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold his right to be repatriated to Panama.
Reports indicate Noriega is asking for a “re-hearing” by the U.S. Supreme Court. A “dissent” ruling from U.S. Justice Clarence Thomas, as commonly reported, means the U.S. Supreme Court has not previously agreed to take up Noriega’s case against the French. This case is likely to generate a substantial amount of attention from the international media. It is also a good example of how domestic Supreme Court rulings can influence international diplomacy. For those who understand the history behind the current controversy, it is well worth keeping an eye on what happens to Manuel Noriega when he steps out of U.S. custody.
Monheit is the managing lawyer at Monheit Law, outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has practiced law since 1989. Michael Monheit was the managing attorney of the law offices of Herbert Monheit — now Silverman and Fodera — a firm founded by... Michael Monheit→
