Speeches and Statements

U.S. Embassy Statement on the Extradition of Otoniel Aguilar Chávez

Guatemala, June 8, 2006

The United States Embassy congratulates the Government of Guatemala for the successful extradition of Otoniel Aguilar Chávez. Mr. Aguilar is wanted for murder in the state of California and faces a sentence of 25 years to life if convicted. The United States requested the extradition June 14, 2000, and this is the second extradition since the year 2000.

The Government of Guatemala did an excellent job to ensure that this individual will face justice. We are committed to continuing to work with the Government of Guatemala to expedite the extradition process to make it a more effective tool in our work together to seek justice.

The positive examples of extraditions among the United States, Colombia and Mexico show how extradition can be used more effectively to confront crime and dismantle criminal organizations.

We hope to be able to resolve our remaining 26 requests for extradition quickly, with respect for due legal process and justice for victims of crime.