Jiménez’ lawyer Rick Diaz had argued that ‘Macaco’ was no stranger to the country and could stay with family while awaiting his trial. According to the paramilitary leader’s defense Macaco has visited Philadelphia frequently where his son was treated for an illness.According to Diaz, Macaco was able to travel freely to the United States until recently, when he was formally included on the ‘Clinton List’, a list of organizations and persons considered a threat to American security.U.S. judges at times use the argument of not being familiar with the country to refuse bail. Diaz fruitlessly offered to pay US$1 million bail.The judge refused bail because of the high risk of escape. Diaz’ argument that Macaco’s extradition had been illegal, because not all legal possibilities to fight the extradition from Colombia had been exhausted, was waved by the judge, because it was “beyond his jurisdiction”.The trial against ‘Macaco’ is still in its preliminary stages. The “real” trial is not expected within a year. That is if ‘Macaco’ fails to reach a settlement with the Prosecution.
Judge refuses bail in ‘Macaco’ trial
