Running from the Cops?
Some individuals have resorted to fleeing the country in order to avoid prosecution. Iceland, who has a reputation for protecting wanted individuals, is thought to be the best place to go. But some places like Mexico have extradition treaties with the United States that compel them to surrender suspected criminals to the United States. Although fleeing to avoid prosecution is becoming popular, it remains illegal. And while, it may sound tempting, here’s some information that may stop you.
Not only is the government extremely aggressive in prosecuting these types of charges, but also if you’re caught fleeing, you will be facing a felony charge and your driver’s license may be suspended for five years, among other penalties.
Among individuals who have fled the United States to avoid prosecution is legendary film director and actor Roman Polanski. After being charged with raping a 13 year-old in Los Angeles, Polanski fled back to his home in London and eventually moved to France. Although, at one point, Swiss police temporarily arrested Polanski, he was never extradited back to the United States. Although Polanski was able to avoid jail time by fleeing, it is important to remember that those same results don’t always happen. Fleeing a country to avoid prosecution is risky – if you’re tempted to do so, proceed with caution.