FBI Fugitive Found Hiding in Wales Can Be Extradited to USA
A suspected terrorist, wanted by the FBI for over two decades, has been located in Wales and is set to be extradited back to the United States to face serious charges, a court has confirmed.
Background on Daniel Andreas San Diego
– Daniel Andreas San Diego, 47, was among the FBI’s most wanted fugitives following bombings in San Francisco, California, in 2003.
– He was arrested in November 2024 in a remote area near Maenan, Conwy, after evading capture for 21 years.
– San Diego is accused of planting three nail bombs across California, specifically targeting companies associated with animal testing.
Details of the Bombing Incidents
– The first incident occurred on August 28, 2003, at Chiron Corporation’s headquarters in Emeryville, California. Two homemade bombs were detonated early, resulting in property damage but thankfully no injuries.
– An animal rights group, the Animal Liberation Brigade, Revolutionary Cells, later claimed responsibility via an electronic message, stating: In the early hours of 28 August, volunteers from Revolutionary Cells descended on the animal killing scum Chiron.
– The second bombing targeted Shaklee Corporation in Pleasanton, California, on September 26, 2003, around 03:20 AM. Though no one was harmed, U.S. Assistant Attorney Helen Gilbert noted that the bomb contained nails, posing a serious risk if anyone had been nearby.
Discovery and Arrest
– San Diego became a prime suspect after being questioned by traffic police near one of the explosion sites. He was briefly detained but released before vanishing.
– The U.S. government revealed that his fingerprints were found on bomb-making equipment in a car he abandoned.
– After his arrest, it was reported that San Diego had been living a quiet life in Wales under the alias Danny Webb, holding an Irish passport and working as an IT consultant. He had been described by neighbors as a private individual who often walked his dogs in the countryside.
Legal Proceedings and Extradition Hearing
– The Westminster Magistrates’ Court proceedings revealed that San Diego’s defense claimed he could not receive a fair trial in the U.S. due to potential political and legal biases. However, prosecutors contended there is no evidence to support these claims, emphasizing that his case had not garnered any comments from high officials, including former President Donald Trump.
– Judge Goozée dismissed the arguments posed by San Diego’s legal team regarding fair trial concerns. A decision on whether an appeal will be pursued will be made at a later date.
Conclusion
Daniel Andreas San Diego’s long evasion of justice highlights the complexities of global law enforcement and terrorism. With his extradition to the USA imminent, he will finally face the consequences of his actions from over two decades ago, bringing closure to a case that has spanned continents and captured national attention. The journey from being an elusive fugitive to standing trial underscores the persistence of law enforcement agencies in ensuring justice is served.