Facing extradition for assault and threats

11:09am Tuesday 13th May 2008

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A POLISH man who went on the run for a year after being released on bail has lost his fight against extradition.

Daniel Bankowski, aged 24, allegedly beat up a rival in Poland, and threatened to smash up his car and kill him.

Shortly after the alleged assault in 2004, he fled to Britain and settled in Bromley.

The valet was first arrested under a European warrant in March last year, when he was living in Downham Way, Bromley.

Bankowski appeared in custody at City of Westminster Magistrates' Court but persuaded a judge to grant him bail.

He failed to turn up to a hearing the following month and another warrant was issued for his arrest.

Bankowski has been in custody since being arrested again on April 10.

Melanie Cumberland, for the Polish authorities, said: "The defendant is wanted for the purpose of conducting a criminal prosecution.

"He is accused of inflicting on a male victim kicks and blows with a fist and a hard object on July 8, 2004.

"The victim was left with a wound to his lip and temple.

"It is alleged two days later he threatened the same man with a beating, and threatened to kill him and burn his car."

Since his first appearance, Bankowski's fiancee has had a baby.

The three of them live with his parents in Holmshaw Close, Sydenham.

Bankowski claimed returning him to Poland would breach his human right to family life.

He said: "I was ready to come to court and when I thought I'm going be extradited' I just couldn't stand up and go.

"I came here to help my family. I was sending money every single week to provide food.

"I thought how could I support my family?'"

District Judge Caroline Tubbs said: "I find no human rights bars and accordingly order your extradition in custody."

Bankowski is facing trial for assault, criminal damage and making threats. He is also charged with forging a military service card.