Home / Crime and Justice / Texas Murder Suspect Held in Italy Amid Extradition Snag
Texas Murder Suspect Held in Italy Amid Extradition Snag
27 Sep
Summary
- Fugitive suspect fled to Italy before his capital murder trial began.
- Italian courts blocked extradition due to death penalty concerns.
- US must provide guarantees death penalty is off the table for trial.
Lee Gilley, a 39-year-old Houston man, is currently detained in a Turin, Italy jail. He fled the U.S. in May, weeks before his capital murder trial was scheduled to commence, after allegedly cutting off his ankle monitor.
His attorney, Dick DeGuerin, noted that Italian courts will not extradite individuals if the death penalty is a possibility. In Texas, capital murder carries only two potential sentences: death or life imprisonment without parole.
Harris County prosecutors are seeking to resolve this issue after Italian judges demanded written assurances. Italy requires a full commitment that the death penalty will not be sought. The U.S. has until September 30 to respond, with a status conference set for October 7.
Gilley's defense has consistently asserted his innocence in the death of his wife, Christa Bauer Gilley, stating he did not kill her. Italian courts are reportedly concerned that a judge might still impose the death penalty, though Gilley's attorney clarified that only a jury can make such a decision.
