Delays in Crucial Material Handover Could Hamper Extradition Hearing of Ex-US Navy Pilot Accused of Training Chinese Airmen
Lawyers representing a former US navy pilot who is facing extradition on charges of training Chinese airmen have raised concerns over delays in obtaining crucial material from the government. Daniel Edmund Duggan, 55, was arrested last year after being accused by the US government of arms trafficking and money laundering. The delays in acquiring the necessary documents could potentially affect the upcoming extradition hearing.
Duggan’s lawyer, Dennis Miralis, informed the court on Wednesday that his client would seek to postpone the November 23 hearing for the US extradition application. An earlier hearing on October 23 will determine whether this postponement will be granted. Duggan will participate in the hearing via a video link.
Speaking outside the court, Mr. Miralis expressed regret over the potential for further delays, given the psychological impact of Duggan’s custody. However, he emphasized the importance of preserving his client’s right to a fair hearing and ensuring that nothing is done to prejudice that right.
Obtaining the required documents from government agencies such as the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, and the US Department of Justice has proved challenging for Duggan’s legal team. These agencies have opposed handing over the material, citing secrecy concerns and the potential for interference in international relations.
The legal team aims to access about 2000 documents related to previous claims that Duggan was lured back to Australia for the purpose of his arrest. However, according to Mr. Miralis, the Australian Federal Police will not be able to provide all the material until November 17, just days before the scheduled extradition hearing.
Duggan’s wife, Saffrine, previously voiced her concern by stating that the prosecution appears to be weaponizing the legal system against an Australian citizen on behalf of a foreign government.
The US government has accused the former pilot of conspiring with others to provide military training to China, specifically regarding approaches and landings on aircraft-carriers. It is also alleged that he provided military training to Chinese pilots in 2012 and conspired to launder payments for these services.
The outcome of the upcoming hearing on October 23 will determine whether the November 23 extradition hearing will be delayed, allowing for the crucial material to be obtained. The delays have posed challenges to Duggan’s legal team, who are working diligently to ensure his right to a fair hearing and access to all necessary evidence.
