A man who spent 21 years on the run from the FBI, accused of involvement in bombings linked to animal testing, is set to be extradited from the United Kingdom to the United States. Daniel Andreas San Diego, an alleged animal rights extremist, was apprehended in 2024 while hiding in a remote cottage in North Wales, bringing an end to one of the agency’s longest-running international manhunts.
The Culmination of a Two-Decade Search
San Diego, who had been sought by US authorities since the early 2000s, was located and detained by British police in a quiet, isolated dwelling in North Wales. His capture in 2024 closed a chapter on a high-profile investigation that spanned two decades and multiple continents. The fugitive had successfully evaded capture since disappearing after being linked to acts of domestic extremism.
The extradition ruling, confirmed by UK legal authorities, paves the way for San Diego to be transferred back to US jurisdiction to face trial. The decision underscores the continued cooperation between international law enforcement agencies in pursuing individuals accused of serious crimes, regardless of the time elapsed since the alleged offenses.
Allegations of Extremism and Bombings
US prosecutors allege that Daniel Andreas San Diego was involved in acts of violence targeting companies linked to animal testing. The charges relate to bombings that occurred in the United States, which authorities have classified as acts of domestic terrorism carried out under the banner of radical animal rights activism.
The case gained significant attention due to the nature of the alleged crimes and the extraordinary length of time San Diego managed to remain at large. Upon his return to the US, he is expected to face charges related to the bombings, which carry severe penalties under federal law.
Legal Path to Trial
The extradition process was initiated shortly after San Diego’s apprehension in the UK. Following a series of legal hearings, the court ruled that there were sufficient grounds for his transfer to the US to stand trial. This decision rejects any arguments against extradition based on the time elapsed or the circumstances of his capture.
San Diego will now be handed over to US Marshals, who will escort him back to the United States where he will finally answer the charges stemming from the incidents that occurred more than two decades ago. The trial is anticipated to be closely watched, given the history of the case and the sensitive nature of the alleged extremist activities.
