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U.S. District Judge Edwin Torres, who is overseeing the extradition case of former Panamanian President Ricardo Martinelli, has postponed his decision on the right-wing leader's case until Aug. 31.
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Panama's Former President Martinelli Faces Extradition Hearing
Martinelli, who faces political espionage charges, is expected to argue at the final hearing that Panama's request is based on "slim evidence" and that an updated extradition treaty between the two countries took effect after the alleged crimes were committed. U.S. prosecutors say Panama's request is proper and the treaty does apply.
The U.S. State Department is expected to make the final decision.
Martinelli — a wealthy businessman who served as president of Panama from 2009 to 2014 — was arrested in Miami last month on an extradition warrant from Panama.
He is accused of illegally monitoring communications of at least 150 people using an extensive surveillance system. He's also charged with embezzlement of public funds.
Marinelli has denied any wrongdoing and claimed the charges are politically motivated.
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