Crime
American Wanted in US $52 Million Embezzlement Case Arrested in Thailand
Thailand’s Crime Suppression Police arrested an American executive of a transportation firm in the United States on suspicion of embezzling millions of dollars in the United States before fleeing to Thailand.
The Crime Suppression Division reported on Friday that an American citizen was arrested with other suspects on Thursday at a condominium building on Lat Phrao 10 Road in Chatuchak district for alleged embezzlement and money-laundering. He exclusively addressed the man as Mr. Lars.
According to the police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) previously accused ten persons of stealing around US$52 million from a transportation company in the United States over a ten-year period.
The FBI has already apprehended nine individuals, while the other, a high-level company official, has escaped to Thailand. The American confirmed he was the one wanted on an arrest warrant issued in the United States and accepted his extradition.
Extradition of Americans from Thailand
Extradition is the legal process by which a person who is accused or convicted of a crime in one country is surrendered to another country for the purpose of facing criminal charges or serving a sentence. The process of extradition from Thailand to the United States typically involves several steps, including:
- Formal Request: The United States would typically make a formal request for extradition to Thailand through diplomatic channels. The request would include relevant documents, such as an extradition treaty between the two countries, a description of the offense for which extradition is sought, and evidence supporting the request.
- Review by Thai Authorities: Thai authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Thai Police, would review the extradition request and accompanying documents to determine if it meets the requirements of Thai law and the extradition treaty with the United States. This may involve reviewing the legality of the request, ensuring that it meets the requirements of the applicable treaty, and verifying the identity of the person sought for extradition.
- Extradition Hearing: If the extradition request is found to be in order, a hearing may be held in a Thai court to determine if there is sufficient evidence to support the extradition. During the hearing, the accused may have the opportunity to contest the extradition and present a defense.
- Decision by Thai Authorities: After considering the evidence and arguments presented during the extradition hearing, Thai authorities would make a decision on whether to grant or deny the extradition request. If the extradition is approved, the accused may be surrendered to U.S. authorities for transport to the United States.
- Transport and Handover: Once the extradition is approved, the accused may be transported to the United States by U.S. authorities, in accordance with the applicable extradition treaty and international law. The accused would then face the criminal charges or serve the sentence for which extradition was sought in the United States.
It’s important to note that the process of extradition can be complex and may involve legal and diplomatic considerations. It’s advisable to seek legal assistance from qualified professionals familiar with international extradition law if you are involved in an extradition case or have questions about the process.
