Oscar winning director Roman Polanski has been arrested in Switzerland after over 30 years on the run. In 1978, accusations arose of Polanski raping a child. He later entered a plea of guilty to sexual intercourse with a 13-year old girl. The State threatened the famous director to more prison time than originally agreed to in the plea bargain. Polanski fled the country prior to the sentencing hearing and has been on the run ever since.
The now 76-year old director relocated to France where there is no extradition treaty with the United States. Before the international terror crisis, European laws were very relaxed as far as detaining foreign fugitives. Polanski had no trouble publicly traveling around Europe up until this past weekend.
Information has not been released on what steps were taken to apprehend Polanski. However, Swiss authorities did arrest him inside the airport while he was on his way to accept an achievement award. Polanski directed the films Chinatown and Rosemary's Baby. He also was married to former actress Sharon Tate, who was infamously murdered by followers of Charles Manson.
The circumstances surrounding Polanski's arrest may complicate the case against him. Now the international community is involved with the extradition. Extra pressure is being placed on the District Attorney to secure a 30 year old conviction. Polanski's case may have benefitted from his voluntary surrender. He remains inside a Swiss jail and the United States is currently in talks with their government, and the governments of Poland and France to arrange his extradition.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a sexual offense, contact a reputable attorney for guidance with your case. I understand that there is more than one side to every story and you deserve yours to be heard. Contact an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney for a free comprehensive review of the charges against you.
