Roman Polanski suffered another setback in his fight against extradition to the United States on Tuesday when a Swiss court ordered the 76-year-old director kept in jail because he poses a high flight risk. The Federal Criminal Court rejected offers by Polanski's legal team of bail, house arrest and other measures to ensure that he stays in Switzerland. “The court considered the risk that Roman Polanski might flee if released from custody as high,” the federal court said. “The bail offered by the appellant does not meet in its form the requirements set out by the law.” The tribunal based in the southern Swiss city of Bellinzona left open possibilities for Polanski to challenge its verdict, highlighting some of the options that may feature in what is expected to be a lengthy legal battle over his extradition. Polanski can appeal to Switzerland's highest tribunal for release. He can also continue attempts to persuade the Swiss Justice Ministry to release him. More court proceedings are expected after Washington files its formal extradition request, which it has until late November to submit. Legal experts have said Polanski stands a minimal chance of a speedy release, as the law dictates that wanted individuals should be held in detention for the duration of their extradition procedures. There is only limited space for exemptions.
