Extradition Treaties

I read an article on the BBC website talking about the extradition of criminals to the US for terrorism related offences. Now, I agree that terrorism is serious, and those responsible for it should come to court and if found guilty be imprisoned; however, I do not agree with extradition to the US for any crime that may carry the death penalty.

You may well ask why should they not be extradited, especially for a serious crime. Quite simply, this is giving the UK courts a death penalty through the back door. I do not feel, that as imperfect sinful humans, we have the right to make that final decision to kill a killer. Only one without sin can do that.

Certainly if these men did commit their terrible acts, and remain unrepentant, they will bring judgement on themselves. However, if they over their time in prison they are repentant, then grace is on offer, just as Jesus (the only man truly without sin) offered it to a sinner in return for her repentance when he said:

If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her... Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?... Then neither do I condemn you,... Go now and leave your life of sin.

The promise of grace, with the request for repentance. If only we could go some way in this also. Yes, we need to be safe, but can we stay the executions please.

quote taken from John 8:7-11 (New International Version), omitting narrative.