August M
A long-running legal fight over extradition has taken another turn in Australia. A former U.S. Marine pilot accused of training Chinese military aviators has failed in his latest attempt to block being sent to the United States.
According to CBS News, an Australian court has dismissed Daniel Duggan’s appeal against extradition, clearing the way for the process to continue.
Court ruling
Federal Court Justice James Stellios rejected Duggan’s challenge, finding no legal fault in the earlier decision to approve his extradition.
That original order was made in 2024 by then-Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus.
The ruling means Duggan will remain in custody in Australia while arrangements for his transfer to the U.S. proceed.
Family response
Duggan’s wife, Saffrine Duggan, said the family was disappointed and would consider further legal options.
“We are very disappointed by this ruling and we will consider our options carefully. But make no mistake, we will not give up,” she said.
“Today does not end our search for justice.”
Allegations explained
U.S. prosecutors allege Duggan provided training to Chinese military pilots without the required authorization.
The claims relate to work he carried out in the early 2010s while linked to a flight training academy in South Africa.
According to the indictment, he is also accused of receiving payments and travel benefits connected to the alleged activity.
Duggan’s defence
Duggan has denied the accusations, arguing they are politically motivated and that he is being unfairly targeted.
His legal team is also seeking intervention from Australia’s current Attorney-General, Michelle Rowland, in an effort to halt the extradition.
Her office said following the ruling that Duggan would remain in custody until he is surrendered to U.S. authorities.
Background case
The former pilot, originally from Boston, served in the U.S. Marines for more than a decade before moving to Australia in 2002.
He later became an Australian citizen and renounced his U.S. citizenship.
Duggan was arrested in 2022 near his home in New South Wales and has since been held in a high-security prison.
Sources: CBS News
