Courts / Ireland / Report

On-the-run police killer consents to NI extradition

Summary

Christopher Shane Frane (36) consented to his surrender to Northern Ireland at the High Court, ending an appeal process where he had previously argued against extradition. Frane, who pleaded guilty to the 2013 manslaughter of Constable Philippa Reynolds, had absconded from Northern Ireland in January while on day-release and was arrested in the Republic in February. His original sentence included a minimum of six years and an Indefinite Custodial Sentence requiring him to remain in prison until proving he is no longer a danger to the public. During the appeal, his counsel, Karen Quinlivan KC, argued that this regime was "extreme and draconian" and unconstitutional, citing a Northern Ireland Court of Appeal description of such sentences. Although a judgment was due in October, Frane took the stand before Mr Justice Paul Burns to consent to his surrender. He will be returned to Northern Ireland within a maximum of 20 days. The matter was not concluded by a final judgment on the merits of the constitutional arguments, as the defendant's consent rendered the legal challenge moot regarding the immediate surrender.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: On-the-run police killer consents to NI extradition. Charges or matters: the 2013 manslaughter of Constable Philippa Reynolds. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• January 24 Incident
• February 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2024-08-07 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal Violent Crime

Read the original CNI report