US fugitive’s extradition case delayed again
THE CASE against US fugitive Nichole King was again postponed as local law enforcement officials still await documentation from the US to extradite her to that country.
The 44-year-old, who was on America’s most wanted list for the past seven years, but fled to South Africa, where she hid for years, made a brief appearance in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
The matter was postponed to October 7, just a day before the 60-day extradition period agreement between the US and South Africa would expire.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Netshiunda told The Star that King would remain in custody until South African officials receive the necessary documentation from the US.
Netshiunda said the relevant paperwork was needed in order for extradition procedures to begin. He was adamant that they would receive it soon.
“We are in an advanced stage in the matter,” he said.
King was arrested at her Brakpan home last month by members of Interpol’s fugitive and extradition unit on the instruction of US authorities.
She had been found guilty of fraud and embezzlement in the US. But just before she was due to be sentenced for the crimes in 2009, she fled to South Africa.
Netshiunda said at the time of King’s arrest that she had used the same name and entered the country legally with a valid passport. While in the country, she worked as a part-time auditor for Coastal Hire, an equipment hire franchise. She lived in Kempton Park, then moved to Brakpan.
Netshiunda said King had been found with the help of the American authorities, who were adamant that she must be extradited back to Winnebago County to be sentenced for defrauding and embezzling her employer.