London: A retired British businessman accused
of plotting to sell missile components to Iran will be
extradited to the United States next week.
Layer Karen Todner said today that her client,
Christopher Tappin, has been told to report to Heathrow
airport police station on Feb 24, when US marshals will take
him into custody.
Tappin faces charges in Texas over allegations that he
offered in 2006 to sell specialised batteries for Hawk
missiles for USD 25,000 to undercover American agents posing
as Iranians.
Tappin faces up to 35 years in jail if convicted. He
denies wrongdoing, saying he was the victim of a sting
operation.
On Monday, Todner announced that an attempt to appeal
Tappin's extradition to the European Court of Human Rights had
failed.
PTI
First Published: Friday, February 17, 2012, 00:10