US says it has right to kidnap British citizens - Times Online
2 Dec 2007 ... Nigel Gibbins, Burgas, Bulgaria. If the US Authorities kidnap a British Citizen in the UK, then by any standard that will be an Act of War. ...
A British government official (X) who conspires to kidnap a foreign national (Y) from a foreign country for trial in England will no doubt be committing an offence: and Y may have a claim against his kidnappers and X and indeed the state. A lot of times America is all bark and no bite. A man jumped bail and fled to canada as the charge was not a deportable one. A person who is suspected or indicted for a crime (but not a bail jumper) should be arrested by a law enforcement agency or (if in a foreign country) extradited.NS, Waipahu, HawaiiThey think they can kidnap people because THEIR law allows it? A quick check shows for example that this story did not run in the Boston, Worcester or Chicago papers. According to Iraq Body Count, their estimate is around 85,000..less then the estimated 100,000 killed in Tokoyo in March 45. According to the US Army's own report its 70-90% of detainees were INNOCENT! Act decisively now and perhaps you can save U.K. Actions speak louder than words.Michael J Brady, PhD International Law, Tucson, RE: "Well..at least theres a legitimate reason for a kidnapping should it ever occur. Actually the US is rapidly becoming but a pale shadow of what it used to be. Add the entire world's military expenditure up and over 50% of that expenditure is US. After all, kidnapping is illegal in the UK, so US officials kidnapping British citizens should be brought to trial.A.P. After one group loses rights, other groups follow. After that they lost the plot.Nigel Gibbins, Burgas, BulgariaIf the US Authorities kidnap a British Citizen in the UK, then by any standard that will be an Act of War. After we outlawed slavery, it became a practice of the British Navy to intercept American slaver ships and to generally harass the slave trade as much as possible. All that stuff is now only the brain washing of school children. All these that WE the people protect the innocent. All this does is undermine the trust shared between nations who have already agreed. Allende's Chile, among many South American and Asian states) if they deemed that it will be in the interest of the US (or the corporate oligarchy they really work for). Already the legal and political powers in other countries are reconsidering the extradition treaties they have with the U.S. Also I am sure the supreme court doesn't have duristiction over here. Also water-boarding him into confessing to his evil and criminally behaviour against the Iranian people.Remember, the Iran has to obey US law - just like the US has to obey Iran law - right.Praise Allayah - Hallelujah to Jesus. Also, I notice the referred to accused people in the article are at this time fighting extradition to the US to face trial for their charges. Although I am now American, my ancestors were British. America can do anything it wishes whenever and wherever it wishes as long as it is stronger than anyone else, and will do whatever is necessary to remain stronger than anyone else. America doesn't have the right to go into someone else country and do whatever the hell they want, it's just not on. America has the right to do anything; just like God has the right to do anything. America is a banana republic ruled by people who apply one standard to the US and another to the rest of the world. America reserves the right to attack and invade Great Britain, but we're not going to do it. America stands by its rights and constitution, stating that they live in the land of the free what a load of posh! American was once the inspiration to the world and a champion of human rights, Now the US government is kidnaping people! Ameri-fraternizing can be dangerous for your health.Martin Baldwin-Edwards, Athens, GreeceMany of us can hardly wait until these thugs are no longer in charge of our country. And forbidden forever into the UK.duke, rockville, MD usaClinton wasn't elected until 1992, which means he actually wasn't in office until January 1993. And here is another bit of news for you........ And here is another bit of news for you........ And if another country wants to take the place of our Judges, Jury and Legal System by shielding a suspect from extradition, then so be it. And If anyone comes to Sun Prairie to kidnap me can I at least have fish and chips across from Downing st. And if they use a diplomatic badge, then they should be persona non grata! And I'm sure they will have no problem sending the people who carried out the kidnapping back to the country in which it took place in order to face charges of kidnapping?R. And just think what they do to their own citizens.World stand up to see the foundation of America, the land of the brave, free and kidnapped. And now Government sanctioned international Kidnapping! And 'rendition' dates to the '90s, also before President G. And that left wing papers agree?Of course he did, any right minded half intelligent person in the world knows full well what happened in that election. And to think that I used to think that the US was the bastion of freedom.. And who used the word "kidnap"? And whose side will the British Government be on ? And yet they think theyre the most civilised country in the world. Anthony db, Eivissa, Does this mean that we will get an all-expenses paid trip to the US, should we happen to say something nasty about Dubya? Any nation that accepts this may as well go ahead and declare itself a non-voting province of the US now - it's halfway there anyway. Any other country will just kidnap you! Apparently they are given information about the real world and can make reasoned decisions. Are we sure it should be put in this context, or was it merely that a British lawyer or judge asked an American lawyer for a legal opinion? Are you really that ingenuous?Andrea, Italy, RomeI love this country. Arrest Bush, Cheney, and ALL their Zionist cronies once this failed presidency is ended, and hand every one of them over to the ICC at the Hague for trial. As far as I know, this is not the Old West and it's not 1860 anymore. As travellers overseas, we will be seen as an easy option for victimisation, and frankly I don't want that at all.andrew, cirncester, If people are kidnapped from Britain then we can extradite the guilty from the US, i.e. As we Americans are beginning to find out to our peril, any law created by bush applies to EVERYONE regardless of nationality just as many other Police States have done in the past. As with WW1, we had to sacrifice way too many of our people to save you guys from your own imperialistic idiocies.6 - Bush didn't steal the election - even the left wing papers agree.Junior, USA, USAI wonder... At least we change to keep with the times. Be interesting to see how the World's Policeman responds to learning it has been getting it wrong again. Better luck next time.Leland, Tallahassee, FLIt is a sad state of affairs here in the United States when out official policy is that we can kidnap people abroad and bring them to the U.S. Between our supine protestation before the US and the EU we have lost our sovereignty almost completely. Bill Clinton didn't become President until January 20, 1993. Bill Clinton, in 1995 issued a directive to the CIA to use extraordinary rendition. Bounty hunters are generally employed by bail bondsmen who are trying to get their money back. Bounty hunters are not associated with any government agency; they go after those who skip bail hence a bounty for their return. Bounty hunting is one of those activites that lives on the fringes of legality and acceptability. Bringing people to justice is nothing wrong; shielding them from extradition it is. Britain should fully stand up to this bullying tactic as this is not within Americas jurisdiction.Rhydian, llanelli, Jonathan old bean, what planet are you from? Britain was the worlds superpower at one stage, and fell and now it is a matter of time before America falls too - its just nature.nikki, london, ukSorry, folks, but America has long ceased to be "a civilized nation". Briton's might not want to come to the U.S. BTW - They 're both fans of water boarding and don't consider it torture so we invite you to try that on them.Please hurry though - we're dieing over here!chris s, encinitas, caCome on people... Bush & Co need to go, & quickly. Bush believes he can kidnap terrorism suspects under his Constitutional powers to wage war, however there is no possible legal basis for extending this argument to other types of criminals. Bush for war crimes certainly resonates. Bush has created an atmosphere which disgusts me, yet I feel very powerless to change things. Bush in office in 1992 when the Supreme Court rendered it's decision? Bush put them in places of power and gave them permission to behave horribly.During the run-up to the Iraq War, I was pleased that the French stood up to us in the UN. Bush was in the White House then, but you can look it up. But nobody seems to be up in arms over the fact that we can be taken off the streets and given a 28 day sentence for doing nothing at all in the UK. But of course, like a bully, they don´t take on countries who will stand up to them anymore. But that process must be done through legal channels of both countries. But then again what else can cousins expect?Our neighbors north of the border do get better treatment. But there is a paranoia at government level. But, you all are OK too - that is when you're not gratuitously bashing America and Americans.Suzy, Central, TexasIsn't there an old saying, 'What's good for the goose is good for the gander'? By that i mean- ignorant, hypocritical, totalitarian WASP ethics dominating whatever ethical or political tenets we used to hold dear.H. By the way, you will find the first person on that list to live to live at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC. Call your damned Congressman and have him do something about it.jj, Memphis, TN"US says it has right to kidnap British citizens". Can you understand how the US will be upset when British criminals aren't sent for trial? Canada demanded and got his immediate release.Frederick Vaquer, Pasadena Ca.Frederick Vaquer, pasadena, , ca, usaI'm somehow not surprised. Carry a suitcase at all times, one never knows when one might need it. Casey Panek, Salem, WisconsinBoo hoo,smells like fake controvery. Check ou "the Hague invasion act". Clair, Baltimore, MarylandPerhaps the UK shouldn't have signed an extradition treaty with the US in 2003 if they wanted to harbor criminals?Corky St. Clair, Boise, IdahoSounds like Bobby Fischer needs to move to a safe house. Cloud, I just find it beautiful that we can share our democracy around the world.This country needs Ron Paul for President!Cecilio Porrata, Allentown, US/PennsylvaniaAmerica kidnaps constantly..i.e. CNN has just reported that US intelligence agencies undercut the White House yesterday by disclosing for the first time that Iran has not been pursuing a nuclear weapons development programme for the past four years. Corruption only exists when the government allows it (and usually is at the center of it).Carmen from Nashville: Info to surrender your citizenship is at www.uscis.gov or 1-800-375-5283 . Couple this with the fact that the US is DEEPLY in debt and essentially bankrupt and you can see why our "family business" is now the MILITARY. Danforth Quayle ...Like father like son ... Deming Liao, china west normal university, chinaLeave us alone!There are plenty here who won't touch America with a 10,000 mile bargepole, yet you still hunt us down. Democracy is all but dead in this country under the Despot bush. Dennis, The American Colonies, In that case, let's kidnap George Bush. Did something go wrong along the way?.Piggy Kruger, Bridgwater, UKLet's see, we once were a Brit colony and learned from the best that if you want someone just take them. Do you know how many successful treaties the US made, sometimes with treat, with our indigenous indian peoples in the 19th century, and then broke those treaties when they became inconvenient? Don't assume they already know; odds are they don't.Chris Horton, Worcester, Massachusetts, USAAdolf Bush and Team America? Don't take it though, that I think this is a good idea. Don't think we regular folk here don't know it. Editorial judgement ehh?James , london, UKIt´s all psychological really. Ehm MaryM from Brookfield,You are aware of the declaration of mr. Erin, London, I do hope Bruce Steele, Tully, USA/NY is kidding. Especially Abu Ghraib because it's the only one we actually have info about. Even if we can, will we risk any more pressure on "the special relationship?"Rupert, Torquay, EnglandThis article makes it seem as if a US lawyer has threatened Britain with this type of kidnapping. Even in the current EU judiciary practise the process of extradition is very complicated process, and especially, that must go through the legal process of that country. Even though we were in transit and did not pass US customs they photo'd and printed the whole Jumbo full of us. Even with Bush gone it has done this sort of thing too often and too long.Christopher Hobe Morrison, Pine Bush, Ulster County, NY, USALighten up, this is not US law or (common) practice. Everyone has to learn that, usually at a much younger age. Extradition is a more valuable resource than rendition. Extraditions of criminals are governed by a treaty between the US and the UK. Far too many important and influential people in the US needed Bush to win that election and it was made so.Please, the facts speak for themselves. Find them all a dank cold cells and fit them with assorted iron masks (because the US is the only first world country that still practices State-sanctioned Murder they'll just have to live). Follow the Example of those American Values we like to export through the barrel of a gun! For the current American administration this will not happen. For the entire body to function properly, the sleeping cells must become awake.Ebohon Idonije, Montreal, CanadaIt is very uncomfortable for me right now to be a US citizen. For the record their are those of us in the country who do not believe this Administration is right and we are trying to correct the damage being done. Foreign governments have often denied the US criminals, even if US citizens. Frank, London, But will English law arrive at a different result? From an illegal war, to torture, to federal incompetence, to scandalous and corrupt pardons and deals, we are living in a world which Nazi Germany came realize. From reading these comments it seems that people are not defending a criminal's attempt to evade justice, but are more concerned with US taking the unilateral stance on kidnapping other country's citizens. Fundamentally, the problem is that by criminalizing so much behavior, the prisons are over-flowing with poeple. Furthermore, when a deportation took place, often they were sent with caveats on what punishments these criminals can be given.M, Milwaukee, USA/WIWell..at least theres a legitimate reason for a kidnapping should it ever occur. G. Belicio, Inglewood, CaliforniaI disagree strongly with the US govenment (I don't call it my government, since I didn't vote for these Nazis). Gavin Tollman was the subject of anattempted abduction during a visit to Canada in 2005.Jones replied that it was acceptable under American law to kidnap people ifthey were wanted for offences in America. GB does not have a 4th amendment, unanimous juries and the like. George Washington, Homeland, USA, USALOOK........... Get a life.Marwan Nusair, Cincinnati, OhioToo bad Tollman got away. Gitmo, secret detention centers, Abu Grhaib. Glass houses and all of that!GM, Brisbane, Irael got away with abducting Eichmann from Argentina. GO for it!(But, please will you allow us to do the same?)David Michael, London, UKThis is actually unlawful under US law. God probably spoke to George Bush, on one of their long-distance phone chats, and told him America is his favourite country and that they can do anything they want. Good becomes evil and evil becomes good.Better add the US to the Axis of Evil.Tom, Paris, FranceToo funny, most of you either CAN'T read, or you have a REALLY short attention span. Good trade and economical links with America are good but this is BAD. Hardly anyone stood up for the rights of drug users. He is a poor representative of bail agents in the U.S.Paul, bellvue, waI am American. He is far better off being tried in the US. He now does what all Police States do, he ignores other nations to the benifit of his own.Bob, San Antonio, TX. He wanted the Canadiansto drive Tollman to the border to be handed over. He was flown by Drug Enforcement Administration agents to Texas for criminal prosecution. He was patronised with "ok we'll let you through because we understand the situation". He was right I do not recognize the America I have lived in all my life. Hence, I suggest that a lot of behavior for which people are going to jail/prison will need to be decriminalized.J.P., Fresno, California, USA We forget it is a two way street What if Iran kidnapped an ex VP for crimes against Iran? Hendrik de Weerd, Utrecht, NetherlandsIt is abundantly clear (by the comments from Americans) that the majority of us are sickened (at best) by the current administration -err- regime. His abduction occurred on Mexican soil, and was NOT, repeat NOT, carried out by US government agents, but rather private citizens.MachaÃn has legal remedy IN MEXICO for crimes which occurred IN MEXICO. How can America ever see that what they are doing is ever right? How can it be a great nation when few nations like sycophantic UK follow it like a dog. How can it then be that Americans suppose they might exercise acts of physical violence, obviously necessary for the act of "kidnapping", in somehow legitimate manner? How does what some American lawyer says = "AMERICA has told Britain." At best, I think this was only meant to put a scare in some people over here wanted by the U.S. How many innocents dead to get the suspect into court?Jim Payne, Oliva, SpainSome people will accuse President Bush and others of war crimes. How will the US feel if Iran came and took US citizens that it saw as criminals in their country. However as for no rise in tuition fees and a referendum on Europe which were both outlined in the 1997 manifesto to name but a few, this government has a habit/addiction to lying. However on a serious note America has got to stop throwing its weight around, because kidnapping people from OUR country breaks OUR laws. However, a bondsman also risks being charged with kidnapping by the other country. However, as kidnap is illegal in the UK, what should happen to those who undertake the kidnap? However, as most people who get bail use a bail bondsman to put up a bond and pay a percentage of the actual bail. However, other states do the same: the two most egregious examples are the Adolph Eichmann and Mordechai Vanunu kidnappings by Israel. However....have you ever known the current regime in Washington to give a damn about what Americans want? Hypocricy?FreeThinker, Alexandria, Virginia, USAWhy the panic? I am alienated from my government to the highest degree I can remember. I am American and I simply have to ask, do Americans and all the pretentious Europeans on here not know the laws? I am sadly disappointed that I am mistaken.Scott, Houston, Texas, USAIf someone agrees with this then let me pose something. I am unsure if we (Great Britatin) are able to execute such inconsiderate facist actions on American soil. I believe that kidnapping carries a potential snetence of life imprisonmentTerry Hamblin, Bournemouth, You chaps and chapettes need to put your foot down on this species of judicial arrogance. I can confidently tell you that the majority of us are overwhelmed with embarassment and shame at the actions of the Bush Administration. I can understand wanting to prosecute people for crimes they've committed even if they go to another country, but this too extreme. I dare say that he will not likely feel so comfortable if 100 other countries were allowed to routinely kidnap or kill US citizens on US soil.Tony Walters, Richmond Hill, CanadaWhat on earth is happening in this world today! I don't know what it is about many Europeans, they can't seem to pinpoint it on what they hate about the U.S.; is it everything, maybe just some things. I don't know which way it is heading.<>America is headed toward a global Gestapo. I don't know which way it is heading.Bradley, Blackpool, Just because something is legal doesn't mean it is done. I don't understand why our legislators are such wussies and don't impeach--and it's Cheney more than Bush who needs removal.My country is *really* screwed up right now. I fear for my country & the world, with creesp like Bush, Putin, Chavez, the Iranian nut & Islamic & Christian extremists. I had hoped that even with that ridiculous opinion, the U.S. I hope this clears it up.Please feel free to criticize the US for any of its many very real flaws. I know many New Yorkers who claim to be of Irish decent but just last year only one outta six can pinpoint Ireland on a world map. I like how everyone forgets President Bush didn't go to war without an ok from Congress. I live in a Red state where if you aren't registered as a republican and a baptist you have a real risk of being hauled off in shackles if you don't watch yourself. I loved the country and its ordinary people. I mean come on now, even at the REMOTE chance the U.S. I moved to the UK to get away from the American brownshirts, little did I know....It isn't clear to me that the US Supreme Court ruled that this type of rendition is legal. I recently flew to New Zealand via LA, and even though we were just in transit the yanks finger printed and photographed a whole Jumbo-full of us, and then checked us on the way back. I rest my case...gee!Marco Verdi, Rome, ItalyUsing the excuse of "war on terror", we are witnessing the hand of law going to unchartered territory which has consequences for all, not just terrorists. I suspect not; the ruling will be laughed-off and not given credible recognition. I think it fails by what I refer to as the 'other shoe' law- what will the US do if some government came into the US and kidnapped someone to face charges in their nation? I think someoene earlier stated that only 18% of US citizens will ever own a passport because they will never travel abroad. I think that the US is absolutely wrong to argue this position. I thought the London times was above sensationalized, tabloid journalism. I thought this was the purpose of extradition treaties, you make em..you live with em. I wish more Brits and Europeans will wake up to what is really happening in the US. I will say that most US citizens will be shocked to know that this is the position of its own gov't. I will venture to say that kidnapping is a shortcut used when they have no real case.Just goes to show how far the facist-neocon elements have penetrated our government. I, too, look forward to the day El Incompetente, Protector of the Invaders from Mexico and Coward of Crawford (Bush), fades into history. Iceland (that's the country, not the supermarket) is no longer beyond the reach of US snatch squads. If a person breaks British laws against kidnapping they should be extradited and brought to trial. If a person jumps bail and then goes to another country they think are immune from deportation. If America and the UK are serious about making the world a better place should we not start by leading by example? If Brits feel they can go America and commit federal crimes, whats worse the American government that seeks justice or the British government that permits its people to hide and never be held accountable for their crimes? If countries deported criminals without the usual left bellyaching this will be a non-starter. If God can do anything, then so can America. If I am going to be subject to US laws, I want to be able to vote on who makes their law.sam, london, not really suprised. If no extradition agreements exist America can enter into them on a bilateral basis. If the answer is a diplomatic meltdown, then these whole thing collapses. If the case can be proved they will be extradicted if not..... If the justice department wants to prosecute a case with real evidence, then there are formal agreements in place for extradition. If the perpetrators are caught they will be criminally charged in the jurisdiction in which the crime occurred and have to face the appropriate sanctions. If there is prior case law, it will be examined, in detail, and probably will not survive the scrutiny. If this Government cannot protect its own citizens then in what sense can the UK -or anywhere- be a sovereign state, or the Govenment be said to actually be a government ?What is the US position on the abduction of US citizens by a foreign power/? If this is legal only a moron will make it standard US policy. If this is what "war on terror" is making possible then the whole episode of 9/11 comes into question, i.e. If US citizens are not that special, foreign citizens certainly aren't.Sandrine D'Anton, Washington, DC USAThis is a huge attack on the sovereignty of foreign nations. If you all forgot we went to war in Vietnam to help out the French. If you want to help, contribute to efforts to elect Ron Paul president. If you´re the world´s policeman both in military and civil law, then your paranoia is abated somewhat. If your so worried about being kidnapped from our country maybe you should solicit some lobbiests and get some laws changed. If you're Not with us you are against US... I'll give you an example: An American cartoonist makes fun of supreme leader Kim Jung Il, which is illegal in North Korea, and is subsequently kidnapped to stand trial in North Korea. I'm happy to surrender my passport and my citizenship to this ridiculous country. I'm not advocating such an approach but history tends to demonstrate that "total war" is effective. I'm not sure I weant anything to do with it any more. I'm really disappointed in my country.Renee, NY, NYWell, that does it for me. I'm sure most Americans will be outraged to hear that their government has such arrogant policies. I'm sure the times is good at inflaming their audience for the sake of the almighty pound. In addition, hand over the Zionist leadership in Israel to boot! In an ideal world, YOU will come willingly. In fact not only must it not be respected but it must be opposed.Wizard, Swindon, It appears the U.K. In many European countries a kidnapper can have received the death penalty until recently. In my opinion, your policy makers alienate the rest of the world (yes, there is one guys), while destroying belief in our own police and security forces. In the case of a war criminal (like Eichmann) hiding in a country which has little likelihood of serving justice to them, then fair enuf - bag 'em. Instead of terrorists they will use fear of predators or falling refrigerators or whatever. Is this the same US which is threatened by 19 hijackers as much as it was threatened by Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. It does not apply to every single person in the world.eddie, Miami, United StatesThere must still be some IRA people in the USA wanted in the UK. It has never had to learn to live peacefully with its neighbours, in the same way that the Europeans have. It is a near-theocratic corporate-owned and operated fascism. It is a problem if is more like a global Gestapo run to serve the interest and whims of the powerful and isolated few. It is also usually a private and contractual matter as well, since most, if not all, Bounty Hunts will arrange from someone jumping bail and the bondsmen who posted the bail sending out the Hunters. It is an offence to conspire with others to kidnap even if the plan is not carried out. It is generally a very good idea to respect the sovernty of any nation that you want to do business with. It is hardly surprising that they are also wild west kidnappers of whomever they deem a worthy target. It is more of a yap yap ankle biting dog, trying to convince you of how scary it is. It is not a warm welcome when you visit the "Land of the Free".America seems oblivious to how this sort of behaviour does little to endear democracy to the rest of the world, particularly the dictatorships they are so keen to prosecute. It is not global or international law, just the law of one nation.Its a sweet thought that a change of party in the states will bring a change but lets face it, laws will remain and neither side is that different from the other. It is really embarrassing to see such a pea-brained lumbering giant with a lynch mob system of justice, remember legal jurisdiction? It is still a child, albeit a powerful one.I spent some time there this summer. It is when the bad times for everyone will start. It isn't ideology except in the rationalization of the use of force for reasons not understood by those using it. It makes me want to apologize to the world at large. It might not be a real good idea to start treating European nations like client states, I am not sure that the United Stated is quite that strong or that this will be in our long term best interests even if we were. It only shows the refusal of the US to be a good world citizen, much less a leader. It should start next August or September. It used to be ilegal for jews to hold jobs, it is still law in the UK that you have to practice archery every Sunday and it is still legal to shoot welshman with a bow if you stand in shropshire. It was a disgraceGM, Brisbane, If you haven't committed a crime, what do you have to fear? It was not a warm welcome to the Land of the Free, and word was that the airline is trying to secure another route because passengers dislike the US stop so much. It was ruled legal in the Mexican case because the US had an extradition case with Mexico. It will take a generation for the world to start to view the United States as a proper country and not a pariah bent on its own prosperity, at whatever the cost. It woudl certainyl be more that a 'lover's tiff'Duncan, Chelmford, will there be "tit-for-tat".............foreign countries will be allowed to kidnap americans to bring them to their countries courts ? It will be counterproductive to any other criminal extraditions, and will certainly undermine international soverienty. It's got control of the largest military machine in all of history. It's just a good job that our governments aren't in the hands of people who will do unethical things. Its legal in the United States cause the Courts don't care how a bail-jumper gets to court, just that they are present. Its like a government on its own authority and opinion polls show only a small minority of the people pass all these laws and approve funding them. It's natural allies are finding it harder and harder to respect what it stands for. It's simply a matter of jurisdiction.Would US citizens accept a ruling from British courts to be effected on US soil? It's telling that the only case the US cited was from 17 years ago and involved Mexico -- not Britain.I hereby assure the people of Great Britain that the American people and government have no desire to start kidnapping British citizens. It's time the US government remembered that it is a member of, not the master of, the world community. It's truly embarrassing to be an American these days.Julia, Abilene, TX USAThe US is not a party to the International Criminal Court of Justice and yet has the audacity to kidnap people to its shores. I've never been so glad to get straight back onto a plane...Anwar, Bromsgrove, Bounty hunting applies to people who are arrested in the U.S., freed on bail, and then fail to appear in court. Jaffe had to be released, if I recall, and was permitted to return to Canada. Jaffe, was kidnapped in Toronto by an American bounty hunter and brought to the US to face criminal charges in Florida. John Scott, Elkins, West Virginia I am deeply sorry for the insane administration that controls this country now at days. John, Boston, USAHumberto Ãlvarez MachaÃn was acquitted of all charges and allowed to return to Mexico. Julia Iskandar, London, EnglandIt may be legal in America, but anyone who kidnaps someone in Britain, be it the American Atorney General himself, is guilty of an offence under British law. Just another example of how America wants to rule the world.Derek, Vancouver, BCDerek Williams, Vancouver, CanadaKidnapping in most countries comes with a big jail sentence. Just ask if Georgie can come out to play.For the first lady...we don't like that the US sees itself as the overlord. Just because a law is old (and 100 years is not old for laws, especially in Europe) does not make it good. Just tell me where and when!Carmen, Nashville, TN USAim sorry but the american supreme court does not govern british citizens only americans. Kearns, Kuwait, Kuwaitso kidnap is permissable by US law? Kidnapping and Torture: American Values!Then, after the Bush Presidency is over let's kidnap his fascist ass too, and those of all his War-mongering cronies and bring them before the International War Crimes Tribunal! Kristian Madsen, Copenhagen, DenmarkThe last 7 + years - and all of them - have been on going nightmare for us, in the United States with things only getting progressively worse. Larry Greenfield, Manchester, LOOK........... Lauren, London, This honestly cannot be true, what are these people smoking? Lauren, Sacramento, well, let's just hope someone can kidnap gwb the next time he leaves the country and send him to the hague for war crimes.and as far as the person who says "we won't kidnap brits," guess again. Let us carry out our lives in peace, whilst you self combust in your own country!Howard, Manchester, The USA is still very much a young country, not yet 250 years old. Like both its northern and southern neighbours, the country was born initially from European colonialism, and its Government spent a hundred years crushing its own indigenous population. Listened to you on Coast to Coast last night too.Keep up the good work.c esterly, USA, USAIf that is the case, then surely the US won't mind other countries abducting their crooked officials and other criminals from the States? Lock them forever in a supermax prison and fit them all with assorted iron masks! Make it a requirement that no nation that engages in, or whose laws admit rendition shall be entitled to power of extradition.As to recent U.S. Many countries around the world protect these alleged criminals since they are either connected or are paying off local officials for protection. Many here hope the next election will end the careers of these colossally nervy imperialists. Marcella Smith, Ohio, USADuring the civil war, a yankee vessel kidnapped 2 confederates diplomats by stopping and searching a british ship.It almost caused a war between GB and the northern states... Mark Dallimore, Peterborough, UKWhat's next? Maxx, Folsom, As an American lawyer, let me explain: The US law is only that the criminal defendant cannot assert the kidnapping as a defense to the charge. May our Republic survive another election. Maybe the America haters just hate a winner! Maybe there is some notoriously vague language in this article, some central terminology undefined, or references to some sayings that are highly disputed in American discussion and thus not really representative for their thought or practise? Maybe they should act on changing the law and not side-stepping it. Meanwhile their companies, such as Trafalgar Tours and others, still continue to do mega business in the USA. Most European countries are small than many of our states, for crying out loud.5 - European countries and Japan started WW2, not the US. Most the prisoners in Gitmo were kidapped. My country has the most protection afforded to defendants. My passport gets checked in and out of UK when I visit. Need and desire for control nearly always stems from insecurity. Nelson Deyoung, cs, coThere is a simple solution, like Mr. News International Limited, 1 Virginia St, London E98 1XY, is the holding company for the News International group and is registered in England No 81701. Nitan, London, EnglandWhere does one draw the line?Can the US snatch a suspected terrorist but not a tax fraud?The tax fraud should be happy. No, America just does as it pleases and rides over everyone to get what it wants.It is indeed a very valid point that Jonathan made. Nobody in the West protested although Argentinian sovernty was violated.So what is the difference?Brian O Cinneide, eThekwini, Afrika BorwaIt just shows what the shared values we always hear about between Britain and America really mean. Now the rights of financiers, gambling website hosts, and authors are in jeopardy. Now will y'all please kidnap our moronic nazi president, vice president, sec. Now, we have budget problems at all levels of government, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain this level of criminality. Obama in which he declares to be wiling to BOMB Pakistan? Of 100 US citizens asked, just over 80% of them can not locate Europe on a map - so the chance of the being able to kidnap someone from the UK are extremely remote. Of course Americans do not want to kidnap British citizens. Of course he cannot sue in a US court for that. Of course it's their right to make laws that are effective on their own soil, but to define law to be inacted in a foreign sovereign state is surely illegal. Oh if only Pelosi had a spine.As for the posters Marcella Smith, Ohio, USA and k, Houston, USA I'm happy to report they're in strict minority.check this out:http://thinkexist.com/quotation/naturally_the_common_people_don-t_want_war/339098.html... Oh right, that dead guy.Andrew Milner, Yokohama, Japan AlpsThe quote concerns America's having passed from barbarism to decadence, and it's from old G.B. Oh, and the criminal in question - Luster - is an AMERICAN CITIZEN!I am blessed and thankful to be an American. Once more the US displays the prevailing attitude that the rest of the world is populated with "Untermenschen."PTT, Reading, UKWow, you people love to jump on the hate America and President Bush in particular train awfully fast! One fellow passenger was almost deported back to the UK on account of a missing form a decade before. One must remember that the type of crimes involved sometimes leaves thousands of innocent people penniless and their future livelihoods a thing of the past, as is the case with the NatWest 3. One of the first things Gordon brown did when he came to office was to annonunce that our relationship with America will be looked at with more scrutiny in the future and that it should be 50/50. One UK businessman and 2 Canadian business men were initially arrested under this act resulting in such an uproar that Clinton, and later Bush, waived the arrests. Only during (because it was attacked) the second world war and afterwards did the US abandon its isolationist mentality.Fewer than 20% of its people have passports. Only in(?) the USA is our law applicable outside our nations borders. Only the weak disagree.Stephen, Bath, Does that mean we can use the same principle to abduct Bush and try him for crimes against humanity? Or any other American?This is basically "might is right" written into the law.phil w, york, ukThis is the workings of the new Dictatorship of America. Or else you have no civility.Bowman, Midwest, USAOne of the big issues of the War of 1812 between the U.S. Other reports go as high as 96%.This is nothing new, it's the shining light of democracy!Cecilio Porrata, Allentown, US/PennsylvaniaNo Great Britian they tricked you again, they will do anything they want. Our courts are usually very painstaking and just in their examination of the circumstances of any particular case. Our middle class is disappearing, our jobs have been shipped away and our govenment has turned its back on us. Our own courts' decisions can be over-ridden. Our shameful failure to remedy that decision means other countries can kidnap Americans on American soil, and we have no right to complain.On the plus side: We are harboring war criminals in Washington, DC. Our slimy, treacherous government sold, no, gave our sovereignty away to Europe, remember? P Stewart, Kent, UKThank goodness our liberal society has grown out of such barbaric practices. Paper tiger, no, desperate, yes.Patrick, Mesa, AZAtten: David Leppard. Pathetic!Emma H., Ottawa, The whole US state was founded on an illegal rebellion by colonists. Peaceful protests brought reform to all 3 countries in the past. Perhaps if only waged war when willing to do so, we'd do it less often.Jon, LA, CA, USWhy is everyone so shocked - America has been doing this for years! Perhaps we should just call it the United States of George? Petersburg, FloridaDoes anyone recollect a fine speech by President Bush (senior), circa 1989/1990, when the Soviet Bloc was falling apart, the two Germanies were re-uniting, and Saddam had not yet invaded Kuwait???. Phew.justin case, Bristol, United States of EnglandLets be honest. Place a $100 million bond against the US holdings in Britain until justice is brought forth and then go and kidnap those involved in the UK. Play our brand new interactive game: with added functionality and daily prizesCareer/JobsSkip Career/JobsForget burnout, boreout is the new office diseaseAre you irritable when you return from work? PLEASE come and get them.Dogger, Knoxville, USA / TNSorry about my government's utter disrespect for the opinions of mankind, treaties, laws, and stuff like that. Please get off your butts and take over already. Please read our Privacy Policy.To inquire about a licence to reproduce material from Times Online, The Times or The Sunday Times, click here.This website is published by a member of the News International Group. Please someone name a case of kidnapping by the US in any recent history. Please there many of us here in America who are embarassed by the Bush administration's inexcusibleactions. President George W Bush has shown utter contempt for the US Constitution, its Congress, the Founding Fathers, and the American people in general, so how does he really know how any kidnap victim will be treated there? President: George Bush Vice President: J. Problem is, the good old US of A does not have an educated public which knows the truth of what is going on in its own back yard. Pushing one's luck comes to mind.antony. Put your libral senators and congressmen to work. Rather, we have chosen to place ourselves above the law and ethics. Re: Your column of 12-2-07.I am certain that all of this will be settled in a U.S. Representative democracy, republics and so on are just like any other oligarchy - just one where you can swap the face on every few years. Richard Carpenter, Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaThis means that if Americans are wanted in Iraq for crimes against Iraqis, then Iraqis can kidnap them and bring them to Iraq for trial. Richard Schweitzer, Atlanta, USASo much for the special relationship. Right to grab them from a loyal friend over some money? Rob, Brum, UKI don't understand, the article simply said that U.S. Rob, Minneapolis, MinnesotaAmerica is becoming increasingly isolated in the world. Ronald, College Station, TXI find it morally repugnant that my nation should act when there are laws ALREADY in place for criminals to be extradicted to this country. Russia, China, India, Brazil and the rest of the developing world are the future. Russian CIA was killing people abroad, right and left. Sadly, I've even hesitated to use my real name on this e-mail; it's that bad, something which was unthinkable and beyond my imagination in 2000. SC, London, United KingdomTime we ceased this special relationship as it is proving too damned one sided and expensive for the U.K.Ken, Chorley, UKWhy is it that the United States go after people in other countries??? Search globrix.com to buy or rent UK property.© Copyright 2008 Times Newspapers Ltd.This service is provided on Times Newspapers' standard Terms and Conditions. Second uk signed an agreement that prevents the uk from sending US citizens to the internationalcourt justice.If the US was really out get the UK we will call your over due Loans from WW 1 which have be paid back in gold.ip.freely, fort knox, ky. Should America not be a beacon to democracy, freedom and fair laws? Similarly, Turkish courts overreach when they charge Dwarkins for hate speech, and UK courts overreach when they convict people outside the UK for libel. Simply charge the offending American with kidnapping, abduction, transferring across international lines and what ever else. Since they are in control and untouchable here by making their crimes 'State Secrets' we need couraegeous countries to apprehend and try these individuals in order to help restore freedom and democracy around the world. Since when should we care if they like us or not. Smith, P.E., Wilmington, U.S.A./ DelawareAnother American writing to say that for the last 6+ years I have been ashamed of my government and terrified for my country. Smith, P.E.former Naval Person, WWII.Kenneth B. So I will expect that US kidnappers will not receive free passage if found out, and this will put US Embassies officials at risk of loosing Diplomatic immunity if they were involved. So the English go to America and kidnap... So the UK should go to the US and kidnap the parties responsible, for prosecution in England. So the US goes to England and kidnaps the English kidnappers for prosecution in the US. So, if the US has a treaty with Canada or UK which provides that the sole means of capture shall be judicial extradition through that country's courts, US law will prohibit the kidnapping. So, long as we are the SUPERPOWER, we will do as we please. So, long as we are the SUPERPOWER, we will do as we please. So, please teach them young not to mess with the U.S. So, please teach them young not to mess with the U.S. Some of you live in countries that I know first-hand are riddled with corruption. Someone once said that if fascism ever comes to America it will carrying the cross and wrapped in the flag. Sooner or later, decent Americans, and there are many, are going to do something about their country because at the moment, it is a disgrace.Peter, Brisbane, AustraliaWhat a ridiclous story! Sound like it will be okay then if Americans were kidnapped in the US and brought to another country to face charges. Stanton, Oregon, USI think you should fly some Nimrods over the U.S. Still, beats a single party state I guess - just not by as much as people think.Whether the US has right, hmm. Such criminal act will be punished sooner or later. Superpower status doesnt grow on trees.Rob, Florida, USA, the reason USA can do it is two fold: First it prevents violent criminals from seeking refuge. Supreme court,if there is some one who has "standing", to appeal the case. Surely the US Government won't mind if UK turns the tables on them and kidnaps US citizens who have committed similar or identical crimes against UK?Good to get the Real News here on your Site. Surely they should be arrested and locked up if they ever set foot in the UK, or Europe again. Taken in context with a hundred other changes going on, this is part of a very dangerous transformation, one of which the American people are only dimly aware.Those Americans who take the time to web-surf can keep informed. Thank you.Rebecca, Huntington, WVI like to look at the big picture. That doesn't mean I'm endorsing it, just pointing out that soapbox you're standing on might be made of cardboard. That is what happens when you have an empire. That this is the only example of the US kidnapping hapless private citizens shows how silly your argument is. That warrants should be honored by all nations. That was done by a group within a state that felt they had the right to do this. That is a powerful bargaining chip and a lot of collateral... That is just rudeBradley, Blackpool, EnglandThis is an incredible abuse of power by the US. The "criminal justice system" has taken a life of its own. The Americans are the most hated people on earth, because it is a collective responsibility when they elect a government to wage war and disregard human lives and common decency. The Archbishop was right, this is hostile imperialism.I recently flew to New Zealand via LA. The article certainly didn't say that the American Gov't routinely practices this, because it does not. The bounty hunters brought him back, but then Canada charged the bounty hunters with kidnapping which was deportable for. The British musr wake up and stand for what is expected of British justice and respect.Water Bear, sydney, AustraliaI wonder what the US will say if their 'official kidnappers' were arrested and imprisoned in the UK. The bush administation wants Iran to bring someone from the U.S. The Bush administration is ultimately betraying the idea over which the USofA was based on. The Bush judicial systems and the Bush corporations rule this countryUnamerican, Carrollton, AlabamaI think this great!The reason being, if we can kidnap foreigners, then other countries can also. The Canadian government extradited the bounty hunter to face charges of kidnapping and succeeded. The Canadian incident that is written about in the article was apparently an attempt to utilize Canadian courts -- which is not kidnapping. The court did not say that the abduction was legitimate, just that it was not a pertinent fact in his trial. The FBI becomes WBI (if it wasn't that already)!E J Murray, Kerry, IrelandWhat in the hell?!!!I'm an American and this really sickens me. The fiasco of the Iranian naval kidnap, this woman in sudan, plus the MR Bean film mentioned elsewhere in your paper, and now we apparently accept that the US can snatch our people any time it wants and we won't do anything. The government keeps its citizens dumbed down and rewrite history weekly.There is however a minority in the U.S. The governments of the US, Turkey, and the UK should respect individual rights and national sovereignty more. The idea that one writer had of kidnapping Mr. The Judges also are largely very honest, disciplined and well trained. The Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave is nether. The law of the jungle is only as useful. The law of this land, our land, is now being dictated to us by Europe and the USA. The mere fact that this is even argued in a British court of law is abhorrent. The message is clear for individuals across the world: avoid dealing with a renegade country which is outside the rule of law. The Neo-Con lawyers have a tendency to re-intepret the law as they see fit. The only ones who have anything to fear from this are the criminals, so why should decent people be against it? The only thing that at least the current American government cares about in a British government is that it knows its place. The police are very, very good, and largely very honest and professional. The President said some very touching words, about the dawn of a new era, and humanity progressing into "A kinder, gentler, world...". The problem is with the legislatures that have criminalized almost everything, and set up mandatory minimum sentences. The real reason is to get what is left of Iran's oil. The rest of the world is just now openly finding out what we in America have known since 2000, bush is a Dictator and has created a Police State. The same US which is unable to defeat third world nations in war. The secret report, which was declassified yesterday and published, marked a significant shift from previous estimates. The trend will continue no matter who is in office with the current mind set of "our government" which is run by the essentially the same people the past thirty years no matter who is elected. The US can extradite the NatWest 3 for white collar crime, but when we or the Italians want US servicemen to assist in inquests in friendly fire incidents, they haven't got the courage to face up to the questions that need answers. The US congress oversteps jurisdictional lines when it outlaws a London business transaction or an internet bet in Antigua and Barbuda. The US feels much more like an oligarchy than a democratic republic. The US has always extradited its criminal class to foreign governments that had just cause. The US is largely a paper tiger in any case. The US is not a rogue elephant as one poster described. The US is NOT going to kidnap any Brits...Personally, I respect the UK. The US is prohibited from kidnapping in any country with which the US has a treaty which forbids it. The US spends more on it's military than China, Russia, and the next 17 members of NATO combined. The USA is the greatest democracy on Earth, yet most Americans don't want the war in Iraq and it still continues. The videos of actual news clips are on YouTube.Tim, Berkshire, UKFunny isn't it. The war on terror has given impetus to greater spending and beefing up of the raw power of the police and security forces and that has bled over into routine policing which it wasn't supposed to do. The whole idea is abhorrent.Nick, Chelmsford, Essexwell I have one thing to say to jj, Memphis, TN. The world does not need such puerile narcissism and jingoism-fuelled hubris. The world is going to Hell in a hand basket and I want off.Jay McMahon, Stoney Creek, CanadaK in never never land:Information Please: 1990 U.S. There always seems to be one rule for America and another rule for the rest of the world.There is no way that America will let one of there citizens be abducted in this way. There are alot of out dated laws out there you might want to find. There is another reason for this ruling. There is no "conspiracy" as such, but rather the reality of having more than 2% of the population in jail or prison is a result of over-criminalizing behavior. There is no jurisdiction for it in the United States. There is nothing that can be done to stop it. There was a famous case where this happened between Canada and the US. Therefore in the event of a kidnapping or attempted kidnapping of a British Citizen appropriate charges will be laid against all involved in the enterprise. There's more then enough to blame them for, but do stop the knee-jerk "it's Bush" response. These are the values of the current American government. They are taking seriously and refining the old and stupid anathema: Yup! They can't afford to fight the two they've already got. They don't like anybody and that includes themselves. They pick up people from all over the world and pack them off to guantanamo bay. They say he was rendered, but then they say the US "persuaded Canadian officials to detain him". They seem to talk tough, when it comes to insulting Americans, but any other country on earth they seem to have a great respect and understanding of. They should have been impeached, and they most certainly should be tried as war criminals. They think whatever they do is right and they don't like to think too much anyway.Maybe Tina Rhea wants her country back. They've allowed our country to be taken over by huge corporate interests which own and manage everything, including the government and the entire world has been effected.We are working for change, here. This "Bush Tourette Syndrome" will be funny if it weren't so sad. This country is turning into something not seen since Rome.TheBigHo111, Las Vegas, NV, USAThis is the most despicable, outrageous and decadent news of the last 60 years. This country refused to sign the Kyitoa Protocol, the Law of the Sea, the Accord on Small arms, Biological weapons and Nuclear Proliferation. This has nothing to do with Democracy it is the actions of a Dictatorship.Reddragon696, San Antonio, TX. This is administration is the most arrogant that the US has ever had. This is an outdated law, that needs to be sorted out; fast. This is because treaties with other countries have equal force in the US as statutory law. This is important because it indicates that the US has not yet grasped the concept of the meaning of history and culture. This is the behavior not just of a rogue nation, but of an unbelievably arrogant one. This is the benefit of being the supreme economic and military superpower in the world.What don't you people in Europe understand??? This is the benefit of being the supreme economic and military superpower in the world.What don't you people in Europe understand??? This is what Pax Americana really means.Balwant Singh, Birmingham, UKMost Americans will NOT agree with the Bush administration on this (or anything else). This 'kidnapping' business dates back to the 19th century (that's the 1800's, dears), and I don't believe George W. This law states that any non-US citizen transitting through the US can be arrested and charged for violating the act. This looks like a slippery slope to even worse foreign relations and a further weakening of American influence throughout the world. This means Bush/Cheney/Rice and Rumsfield,can be kidnapped for war crimes and wisk off to a law abiding country to be tired for their crimes aganist humanity.J.D. This seems to be a growing trend here in the states. This should be a warning to all dictator wannabes who want world domination!eileen kuch, hyattsville, USA, MDAs an American, I am utterly ashamed that this administration has sunk to this level. This tendency to believe that THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA CAN DO WHATEVER THE HELL IT WANTS is merely yet another indication of our imperial decline. This was the cause of the 1812 War, and presumably will be termed an act of terrorism and the act of a rogue state.mark francis, London, No big surprise there then. This will be president Bush Sr.'s administration.Dan, Des Moines, K from Houston locks, loads and fires a historical dud: The reference from the 1990s was to the year 1990, when George Herbert Walker Bush was President. Thomas Payne, Washington DC, US/StatelessAs many comments have confirmed , Kidnapping is illegal in Britain as is "conspiracy to kidnap". Though we owe EVERYONE practically now, we have recently gained control/ownership of the world's oil supply. Tim Krause, Lisle, USAAll countries kidnap. Timinator, Old West, California, USAThis attitude may encourage the kidnapping of American citizens in retaliation.regis palombo, porto alegre, brazilWhat is the position in International Law? Tollmanreturned to Britain.Legal sources said that under traditional American justice, rendition meantcapturing wanted people abroad and bringing them to the United States. Toynbee said, the autopsy of history shows that all great nations commit suicide.(Don't tell the NSA I wrote this, okay?)Tirebiter in Sector R, Corvallis OR, US of AWelcome to the rest of the world Brits.... Try all of them for war crimes and crimes against humanity! Try finding out how many of the poor schmuks in Guantanamo Bay are guilty of anythingAllan Watson, Redland City, AustraliaWhy should every other nation on the planet give two-hoots as to what congress and Bush rules is sanctioned! Unfortunately, the World we live in today is not a perfect one. Unlike the last WW we no longer wage war against a "country", by devestating it's infrastructure, and killing off massive numbers of the population. Unlike when the British impressed/kidnapped thousands of Americans to man their ships of sail. US administrations have felt that it is their right to interfere in any country in the world they choose by using the CIA to overthrow their elected governments (e.g. USA, stop trying to rule the world and try being a part of it.JNB, Greenock, Scotlandit should be made clear to the US authorities that the British Covernment considers the protection of British Citizens to be a prime obligation. USAHave you forgotten your own terrorist/disaster teams in the tunnels minutes before explosions occurred? USATo be fair to Bush, this was US law before he stole the election. Use of it by the United States government using it's own agents will be problematic, particularly if the party were merely a fugitive and not a bail hopper. Veening, Rotterdam, The NetherlandsInteresting that so many want to get rid of Bush. Very shortly you will also begin to see American citizens occupying internment camps for disagreement with the government, the old and disabled - and those screwed by the corporations - starving and freezing, and so on. Viv, London, EnglandWe've played second fiddle to the US for so long, they're now dictating our own law. Wait until Hillary starts eliminating her enemies.Chrys, Greensburg, I may be confused about the dates, but was George W. We already know that the US does what it wants, when it wants, without anyone stopping them, so what's different?Rosy Knight, Sheffield, UKCool, an infinite loop of kidnappings: The US kidnaps someone in England, breaking English law. We are attempting to bring criminals to justice. We are attempting to bring criminals to justice.Bruce Steele, Tully, USA/NY"Really?You live in dream world.You hit the nail on the head though when you said "We are attempting to bring criminals to justice"Criminals? We are counting the days until the next presidential election since Congress apparently does not have the guts to impeach him.Janie, New Orleans, USA/LAMarcella, you state that the us haven't kidnapped anyone recently.Totally incorrect. We are less than 250 years old, yet most Americans cann't tell you when their ancestors imigrated to the U.S.We seem to only live in the now with little regard to the global impact our actions as a nation make. We are working from the bottom up, for a leader who will restore our constitution, our reputation to other nations and who will do the right thing by the rest of the world. We bring them in front of a twelve people jury. We can do whatever we want in your own country!"Tara, Birmingham, I wonder what the official U.S. We cannot have countries allowing this to happen. We can find ourselves in a situation where another country or individuals will hold hostage a great many US citizens until they get theirs back, tit for tat. We do not care about the opinion of others and nor should we. We do not care about the opinion of others and nor should we. We especially need to be rid of foreign agants in our government. We even provide them with a layer if they cannot afford one. We have 2.1 million people in prison here and the media preaches fear 24-7. We have an unbelieveably huge number of people in prisons, jails, probation and parole. We have better things to do then annoy our friends the Brits, but if the jumper disappears one night in Britain, who among you is really going to care that one American you thought was a tourists, just disappears? We have to do what is best for ourselves not what is best for everybody else. We in America are going to suffer from our self rightousnous when another empire rules. We just don't know what to do other than wait and hope voting still works.declinetostate, declinetostate, California, USAWe are so sorry. We send a strong message to wannabe criminals out there. We should make it harder to arrest suspected criminals, not easier. We were only on a cease fire to begin with. We will be the only superpower in the world for generations to come, even in the lifetime of your great-grandchildren. We will be the only superpower in the world for generations to come, even in the lifetime of your great-grandchildren. We will be treated like dogs for imposing ourselves on other countries. We will get you, we will never stop until we bring you to answer. We'll see what happens....Shari Lieber Silverman, South San Francisco, California, U.S.A.there are better things to worry about. We're trying, but until the '08 elections come in November, it's going to be a long hard ride for all of us.Gary, Atlanta, Georgiawhy are people on here bitching about US Law? What abut all the others hidden around eastern europe kidnapped by the US.This US policy means that the US can not have any right to complain when other nations kidnap their citizens.DS, Glasgow, UKUSA and UK stuff? What has happened to my country?John Milland, Green Valley, AZ USAWhere was passport control?? What if American spooks are caught in the act of kidnapping British citizens by British authorities? What if any other country kidnapped an American for an alledged crime in that respective country? What is Europe's attitude to this problem, here discussed, may be more relevant. What is Law in the USA is one matter, however such is not law in Britain and when in Britain US citizens must obey British laws. What pathetic ignorance these Rush Limbaugh twits exhibit!John, Charlotte, North CarolinaU.S.A. What the article says about the Tollman case doesn't make sense. What will happen when the countries involved decide to go to the USA and kidnap the kidnappers?Bill, New York, NY, Good grief! What, they're going to start another war? Whatever we might think of the decisions of the courts, not everything bad that happens is George Bush's fault. When you're in a nation you obey that nations laws.Melchior, Brooklyn, NYThe solution to this is very easy: Enact reciprocal legislation and execute it. Where does it end ?Bet fox news made it sound a lot better.Peter Griffin, woodhouse, Englandwhats wrong with being americanised? Whether kidnapping's legal in the USA is not the point. Whether one idiot lawyer said what the Times claims he said or not, the idea that this is the policy or even attitude of the US government is beyond idiotic.Oh, and BTW, "Dog the Bounty Hunter" is not a US government official or employee. While I find the law repugnant, it is the law of the land in the United States and has been for some time. While many others in US government are responsible for arrogant behavior, Mr. Who ever said lifes' always fair hasn't really lived it.Hadley Scott, Lebanon, USA / Penna.Axis of Evil .. Who is bringing them to bookMoto503 (Living life in Spain where the government doesn't interfer in your life)Moto503, Malaga, SpainWhen it involves Suspected terroist you call it rendition, when it can include bankers its called kidnap. Who will even notice?Stephen T, Staten Island / New York, USA / NYIt is funny how people talk about bounty hunting and assume that it applies to the government doing the same thing. Why does London have the reputation of a place where anything goes? Why is effective prosecution of white collar crime more common in the US than any other western nation? Why isn't the London financial community as transparent as NY? Will fugitive US tax evader Marc Rich be kidnapped in Switzerland to face the music in a US court? Will fugitive US tax evader Marc Rich be kidnapped in Switzerland to face the music in a US court?No, I forgot, Bill Clinton pardoned Rich.Red, St. Will oen of the countries consider it an act of war? Will, Greensboro, NC, USACriminals should not feel safe anywhere.Do-gooders and the PC lobby will shout and scream, but normal law abiding people support USA policies most of the time.Well done, USA. Willatts, Cardiff, WalesThe United States Supreme Court has had an uneven record on international kidnapping. With the daily scandals coming from whitehall, it comes as no surprise America is trying to get a piece of the cake. With the disgust and hatred the world will view the US, and they are doing more than you think. Wong, USA, USAwell it`s coming again boy`s and girlsThe best way to take control over a people and control themutterly is to take a little of their freedom at a time, to eroderights by a thousand tiny and almost imperceptiblereductions. Would he/she be jailed and serve a sentence equal in length to any other criminal? Would it be ok therefore to kidnap him and put him on trial in the Hague? Yeah, right.Allan Watson, Redland City, AustraliaAfter reading this article, it once again makes me ashamed to have anything to do with my home country. You are innocent until proved guilty BEHIND ANY REASON OF DOUBT. You Brits need to defend your rights against the US imperial overreach. You call that justice?fred, nookastle, Its clear from reading 90% of the American comments here that you guys take this discussion very personally. You can bet it won't be in our favour.Mid J., Dong Pu, ChinaThat is a truly shocking law, that needs to be sorted out as soon as possible. You can get 28 days for nothing or half a life time, torture and kidnapping for nothing in the UK and US respectively. You guys are just too easy.Hotspur, Atlnta, USA"At least when Amer. You have submitted and we choose not to. You might want to make a habit of emailing articles like this to them, along with suggestions that they speak out. You should be a beacon but you're behaving like an idiot.Steve, Portsmouth, I do not apologize for the stupidty of my government because I do not have a government. You signed the contract, you broke the rules, you deal with the consequences. You talk the talk; you gonna walk the walk?Dennis, Waterloo, USA / IowaThere is a solution. Your "bounty hunting" ways are still in effect from 1860.America needs to grow up and stop spitting its dummy out all the damn time.Kate, Kent, UKregarding:What's next? You're already a lacky of several middle eastern countries you fool. Zim, Omaha , NebraskaAs an American, might I suggest to the Rest of the World that the time is right to go kidnap Henry Kissinger and Robert S.