Spain approves start of extradition proceedings for American — The National
The Spanish government has authorized the start of consideration of a US request for the extradition of American James Cox Chambers Jr., who is in custody in Madrid. Washington accuses the 41-year-old Chambers, known as Fergie Chambers, of money laundering, participation in riots, and conspiracy to participate in riots. According to the publication, the US is also seeking his extradition over alleged financing of Hamas.
As The National reports, citing Bloomberg, Spain's Council of Ministers voted to refer the case to court. Informed sources told the agency this on condition of anonymity because the decision was not public at the time.
Further procedure
The US request must still be considered by Spain's National Court. After that, the final decision on extradition will be made by the government led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. The publication notes that it would be atypical for the government to refuse to support extradition to the US after a court decision.
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Chambers was detained on July 10 on the island of Ibiza while driving a car. US authorities link the case, among other things, to his participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations in 2023 and money transfers to a company in Tunisia, where he previously lived.
The defense's position and parties' reaction
Chambers denies the charges brought by the US. His lawyers state that the transfers were donations to humanitarian projects, including in Gaza, and that the origin of his wealth is properly documented. The defense also claims that the US is seeking a five-year prison sentence for actions for which other participants in pro-Palestinian protests received 60-day terms.
The left-wing Podemos party has organized a campaign in support of Chambers. Sanchez's Socialist Party supported consideration of the request, while junior coalition partner Sumar called for it to be rejected. Demonstrations demanding the American's release took place in Madrid, Barcelona and Seville.
