Polanski Denied Release

Roman Polanski will not be awaiting his extradition litigation in his Swiss chalet. Swiss authorities rejected appeals to release him in any fashion, including on bail. Polanski's story is back in full force; most people know that the director fled Los Angeles while awaiting sentencing for having sex with a 13-year-old girl in 1978. The pending trial is subject for much debate and has somewhat split Hollywood.

The denial of Polanski's release could be an indication of an unfavorable turnout and possible extradition. While some French and Polish diplomats came to his immediate defense, they have since toned down their support.

While awaiting sentencing in which a plea bargain would have granted him jail time already served, Polanski left the U.S. when his lawyers learned the judge would not honor the bargain and could have sentenced him to up to 50 years in prison. Swiss authorities thus far have been forthcoming about not releasing Polanski because of his flight from the 1978 case.