(Jamaica Gleaner) The Turks and Caicos Attorney General’s Chamber has signaled its intention to submit a formal extradition request to have former Premier Michael Misick extradited.
Misick, who is being sought in relation to the criminal investigation into systematic corruption in government was arrested in Brazil on December 7, 2012.
A statement issued Wednesday by the AG’s Chambers indicated that Misick has an opportunity to consider whether he wishes to contest his extradition.
“If he does not contest the extradition, and there are no other outstanding issues, then everything possible will be done by Turks and Caicos authorities, in collaboration with his legal advisors and the Brazilian authorities, to ensure his speedy return to face questions in relation to alleged crimes during his time in office and to face trial in accordance with our laws,” said the statement.
The AG’s Chambers added that it had received assurances that during Misick’s time in custody, he will receive consular assistance from the British Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro, who will work to ensure that he gets the same level of treatment as other British prisoners in Brazil, and is treated in accordance with international minimum standards.
“The consular staff in Rio will provide the same level of consular assistance offered to all British Citizens in Brazil.”
The former Premier is to answer charges in relation to the criminal investigation arising from the Sir Robin Auld Commission of Inquiry 2008-09 Report which stated: “There is a high probability of systemic corruption in government and the legislature and among public officers in the Turks & Caicos Islands in recent years. It appears, in the main, to have consisted of bribery by overseas developers and other investors of Ministers and/or public officers, so as to secure Crown Land on favourable terms, coupled with government approval for its commercial development. Breach and/or by abuse of the Government’s Belongers’ Empowerment and Crown Land Policies appear to be frequent mechanisms of, and aids to, such transactions.”
