Should Roman Polanski be extradicted?
In 1977, Director Roman Polanski plead Guilty to having “unlawful sexual intercourse with a Minor”, who was a 13 year old girl. Before he could be sent to Prison, he fled the country and has lived in France for decades to avoid extradition to the United States.
US Authorities have had an warrant out for Polanski’s arrest since 1978. Police in Switzerland arrested Polanski Saturday based on that warrant after he tried to enter the country for the Zurich Film Festival, which is holding a tribute to the Director.
Over the last few days, many in the Entertainment Industry have come out against the arrest, with photographer Otto Weisser, a friend of Polanski, saying, “He’s a brilliant guy, and he made a little mistake 32 years ago. What a shame for Switzerland”.
My question is this….Is this really “a little mistake”?
We have no way of knowing whether the sex was “truly” consensual between the girl and Polanski. What we do know is the law decided a thirteen year old isn’t old enough to make that sort of decision on their own, particularly when an older man or woman is involved.
Also, if authorities didn’t arrest him, are we then telling the world you can commit a crime and not go to jail if you flee the country and are famous…?
Personally, I think his arrest is justified. If anyone else in the world committed a crime, they’d be arrested for it….even if it was back in 1977. In fact, it actually seems baffling to me anyone would question his arrest.
I think it speaks to a sad state of affairs where famous individuals are so used to special treatment, when they’re forced to face up to responsibilities everyone else have to face, including the rich,they simply can’t believe it.
My feeling is this is an important arrest. Not because of what was done thirty years ago, but to set an example that it’s not okay to commit a crime…. even if you’re an award winning Director.
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Ann currently works for a Fortune 50 company as a Global Project Manager, and graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Psychology / Communications and Human Relations. She lives in Connecticut with her boyfriend and two adorable dogs.
I completely agree. Regardless of ANY circumstances surrounding the incident with the girl (and regardless of whether or not she chooses to press charges – I’ve heard she won’t), Polanski broke the law. There’s a warrant for his arrest. He should therefore be arrested. Anything that happens after that is between him, the girl (now a grown woman, I suppose), their attorneys and the police.
Frankly, I think he should be prosecuted for the very reason you said – whether or not the sex was “consensual,” a 13-year-old is not mature or worldly enough to truly consent to sex.
Kelly – Can you imagine the precedence that would be set if the Legal system just said, ‘Eh, it was a long time ago…let’s just forget about it’ ? I mean, really.
I think he should ABSOLUTELY face extradition to the US to face up to what he did. We can’t give him any special treatment because he makes great movies. I doubt the punishment will be very severe at this point anyhow, but he definitely can’t get a free pass.
Jill – Completely agreed. Besides, his arrogance (to travel throughout Europe, just assuming he’ll never be arrested) is beyond belief.
BBC interviewed a bunch of Swiss people and of the 5 they aired all 5 said they think this is ridiculous! He is being persecuted and “he’s a good citizen”. My mouth was open in the car listening. I couldn’t believe my ears. So if enough time goes by, molestation is ok?! My niece is 13 and SO immature. I think of her with a 30-something. She can barely text the other boys in her class!
And what’s more, Polanski admitted to doing it!! And drugged her. I just can’t get my head around why anyone in the world would not want him to face the charges. Does Europe just have that different sexual conduct standards than we do?
Gretchen – I can’t imagine morality is that much different….it’s only a different continent, not another planet. Crazy!
I’m sitting here actually trying to think of reasons why some people feel it’s nothing, and aside from his talent, I just can’t imagine anything else….
I have always thought this was really REALLY strange. I mean I don’t even know why there is even a question about if he should be made to pay for his crimes. The man was (dunno if he still is) a predator and the fact that he hasn’t be dragged back here to the US is really quite amazing. I remember seeing some special where the lady who he victimized was totally cool with him being exonerated, but some things just cant be let go. I think the man has made a mockery of our justice system and should face charges. ESPECIALLY WHEN IT’S NOT EVEN A QUESTION THAT HE DID IT!
Your blog is very fun!! I love your tabs with different categories for the themes of the posts.
Anyway….
in reference to the actual post… of course he should be arrested. I feel horrible for the girl who is now a woman who has to be re “raped” by the press coverage. A 13 year old is a child!!!! Hollywood should be ashamed sticking up for a child molester.