Bingham's attorneys hail AG's decision in extradition matter

RESPONDING TO a story published in yesterday's Gleaner, the legal team of Prestley Bingham said the Minister of Justice, Senator Dorothy Lightbourne, exercised the overriding authority expressly reserved to her by extradition law to protect citizens from oppression, injustice and undue deprivation of their rights.

The comment was based on a decision the minister made on Wednesday, when she denied a request by the United States Government to extradite Bingham, who is a prominent St James businessman.

A release under the signature of attorney-at-law Jacqueline Samuels Brown said Senator Lightbourne made her decision after receiving a written petition, supported by sworn affidavit evidence, and after hearing extensive arguments from the representatives of the United States Government and Bingham's attorney.

Samuels Brown further explained that the minister's power and authority are separate and apart from and in addition to the jurisdiction given to the court by the same extradition law.

Bingham was released after spending a total of 25 months in custody.