Computer hacker Lauri Love will most likely kill himself if he is extradited to the United States for his trial according to Professor Simon Baron-Cohen. The Cambridge professor, director of the Autism Research Centre, is the same expert who succeeded in helping Gary McKinnon, another computer hacker with Asperger's Syndrome, to be spared from extradition in 2012.
The 31-year old Love who is an electrical engineering student at the Suffolk University Campus has been accused of hacking NASA, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the US Army and other government websites. If the charges against him in three states will succeed, then he could be imprisoned for up to 99 years. Daily Mail said that while his extradition is being sought by the US, experts claim this could be dangerous for Love as he has Asperger's Syndrome and could be suicidal.
"Autism typically means a person may not be fully aware of the consequences of their actions, or understand the consequences of their behavior on others," Baron-Cohen said. Love was reportedly on the very high range of the Autism spectrum and has severe disability and risk of suicide if he runs of legal avenues to defend himself. Baron-Cohen added that Love would not be able to socially cope in prison considering his mental health.
Telegraph said the US authorities want Love to be tried for cyber-hacking in the US. However, his lawyers told the Westminster Magistrates' Court that it would be more feasible and practical for Love to face charges in the United Kingdom given Love's state of mind since he lives there with his parents who can provide him the support he needs. His father is a prison chaplain.
ITV said Amber Rudd, UK Home Secretary, has already signed an order for Love's extradition to the US. Over 100 letters have been sent to President Barrack Obama signifying their concern for Love's possible extradition to the US.
