Extradition case: Murderer and rapist remanded

The High Court has remanded in continuing custody a convicted murderer and rapist whose extradition is being sought by the UK authorities.

Today at the High Court Mark Trayton Smith (aged 47), a native of Cheltenham, England, was further remanded in continuing custody by Mr Justice John Hedigan for a period of one week when it is thought that the matter will be concluded.

The UK authorities claim Trayton Smith breached the conditions of a licence for his early release from a British prison during the mid nineties, having serving some 13 years of a life sentence imposed for murder.

Trayton Smith, a former bank worker, was convicted at Swansea Crown Court in 1983 of murdering Albert Richards at Burry Port, Dyfed in Wales, on August 31, 1982.

Mr Richards, who worked with Trayton Smith at a bank in the town, was the victim of an unprovoked knife attack.

Counsel for Trayton Smith Mr Giollaiosa Ó Lideadha SC applied to the court for an adjournment of one week.

Counsel said that he hoped that when the Mr Trayton Smith is next before the High Court that matters will be able to "proceed expeditiously".

Counsel for the State consented to the adjournment.