The Daily Star Ireland
A U.S. federal judge has approved the extradition of former Olympic swimming coach George Gibney to Ireland, where he is facing a lengthy list of sexual abuse charges dating back decades.
Judge Orders Extradition at Florida Hearing
At a court session held in Orlando, Florida, U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel Irick signed the extradition order, allowing Irish authorities to take custody of Gibney. The former coach, now elderly and wheelchair-bound, has been accused of 78 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape involving four girls between the ages of eight and 14 at the time of the alleged incidents.
During the brief 11-minute hearing, Gibney consented to the extradition and requested that the process be expedited. He is currently being held by the U.S. Marshals Service at Orange County Jail until Irish officials complete the necessary arrangements for his transfer.
Details from the Courtroom
Gibney appeared in court wearing a navy blue jail-issued uniform and was not wearing glasses. His defense attorney, Aisha Nash, noted that he was “in desperate need of glasses.” When asked about his health, Gibney told the judge that he was taking medication for high blood pressure and confirmed he was receiving appropriate treatment while in custody.
Judge Irick questioned Gibney about the affidavit he signed, in which he waived his right to challenge both his detention and the extradition order. Though initially answering “oh I will” when asked whether he understood he had the right to contest the process, a private word from his attorney led to him clarifying with a firm “yes.”
The judge had to ask Gibney several times to speak up, noting that he was soft-spoken. U.S. Marshals eventually repositioned him closer to a microphone to ensure his responses were audible.
Legal Formalities and Final Confirmation
The judge explained that under U.S. law, Gibney was entitled to a formal hearing to determine several key criteria, including whether a valid extradition treaty exists with Ireland, whether the charges are understood and supported by probable cause, and whether Gibney is indeed the person named in the warrant. Gibney affirmed each point with a “yes,” with guidance from his legal counsel throughout.
When asked if any promises or incentives were made to persuade him to waive his rights, Gibney responded “no.” He confirmed that he had voluntarily signed the waiver of his right to an extradition hearing.
With all conditions met, Judge Irick formally issued the extradition order. Gibney was then escorted from the courtroom by two U.S. Marshals and returned to jail custody to await transport to Ireland.
