An American fugitive wanted in the US over a high speed car crash which killed three young students is facing inhumane treatment if extradited, a Dublin court heard today.
Frederick David Russell, named on the US Marshall's 15 Most Wanted list, could face eight charges if the Irish courts agree to have him sent home.
Tom O'Connell, SC, for Mr Russell (27) told the High Court that his client could be exposed to male rape if incarcerated in the US.
Mr O'Connell told the court a US sentencing expert, John B Webster, in a affidavit to the court, found Mr Russell would be targeted and victimised in prison. Mr O'Connell told the court rape is common in US prisons.
Mr Russell could be segregated from other prisoners and face-24 hour lock-up with only one hour for exercise a day, the court heard.
Mr O'Connell said the US prosecution could attempt to have aggravating circumstances considered by the court which could mean an extended sentence including life imprisonment, the court was told.
"I ask the court on the basis of those facts that there is a real risk he will be exposed to either inhumane or degrading treatment if incarcerated," Mr O'Connell said.
The court has heard that Mr Russell was behind the wheel of a speeding SUV which collided with several cars on the Moscow-Pullman highway in Washington State on June 4th, 2001.
He went on the run for over four years in the weeks before he was due to stand trial for the multiple pile-up.
If extradited, he could face three charges of vehicular homicide, three charges of vehicular assault, charges of forgery and theft.
PA