Swiss take time on Polanski extradition decision

The Associated Press, Monday, April 26, 2010, 7:10am (PDT)

GENEVA (AP) -- Swiss authorities say they'll study a California court decision to deny Roman Polanski sentencing in absentia before deciding their next step.

Justice Ministry spokesman Folco Galli says authorities have received a copy of last week's ruling that was seen as a crucial loss in Polanski's battle to avoid extradition to Los Angeles for having sex in 1977 with a 13-year-old girl.

Swiss officials have been waiting for clarity from the United States on whether the 76-year-old director needs to appear before a court to be sentenced.

But Galli said Monday the latest ruling doesn't mean Switzerland will now immediately make an extradition decision.

The Swiss arrested Polanski seven months ago. He is under house arrest at his Alpine chalet.