DPP Secures Extradition of Kenyan Fugitive to US Court Over Fatal Drunk-Driving Case

Office of the director of public prosecutions PHOTO/DPP

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has secured an extradition order against Kenyan fugitive Sancho Kibutu, who is wanted in the United States to face sentencing following his conviction for a fatal drunk-driving offence.

At the Milimani Law Courts, Kibutu appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Teresia Nyangena, surrendered to the extradition request, and indicated his willingness to comply with the court’s orders.

“The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has today secured an order for the extradition of a Kenyan fugitive wanted in the United States of America to face sentencing following his conviction over a fatal drunk-driving offence,” the DPP said.

Kenyan Fugitive to Face Sentencing in US

Following the court order, Kibutu is expected to return to the United States to face sentencing over his conviction for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated.

“Kibutu was arrested pursuant to an extradition request by the Governments of the United States of America and Kenya. He is expected to be surrendered to the United States to face sentencing following his conviction for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated, contrary to Section 191.5(a) of the California Penal Code, together with three special allegations,” DPP said.

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According to the extradition request, Kibutu had been on the run since October 11, 2013, after failing to comply with an order from the Superior Court of the State of California, County of Madera.

The court had directed Kibutu to appear for sentencing on October 28, 2013, but he failed to attend the proceedings as required.

DPP Highlights International Cooperation

Meanwhile, the extradition proceedings demonstrate the cooperation between Kenyan and US authorities in pursuing fugitives who face outstanding criminal justice processes.

“The successful extradition proceedings underscore the DPP’s continued role in facilitating international cooperation in the administration of justice and ensuring that fugitives wanted to face criminal justice processes are brought before the courts,” DPP added.

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Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Duncan Ondimu and Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Magdalene Nduati led the prosecution, with assistance from Principal Prosecution Counsel Njoki and Prosecution Counsel Fatma Shaban.

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