R&H Speaks to KOAA TV About International Extradition

A judge in London has cleared the way for extradition for the Colorado Springs mom accused of killing two of her children in December 2023.

Kimberlee Singler can be extradited from the United Kingdom back to the United States to face charges. Singler’s legal team has said she intends to appeal the judge’s decision. 

KOAA TV interviewed Robinson & Henry Criminal Defense Partner Ryan Robertson to understand the appeals process. Robertson provided insight into the legal process of international extradition and what comes next for Singler.

“Does Colorado, does the United States, have the ability to actually punish somebody, maybe more than England wants to? But it’s still seen as not necessarily inhumane but rather harsh,” Robertson said.

The legal argument in this case has revolved around whether a potential life sentence without parole would violate Singler’s human rights under international law. Singler’s attorney, Edward Fitzgerald, has argued that sending her back to the U.S. would violate European human rights law because she faces a sentence of life in prison without parole in Colorado if convicted of first-degree murder.

“Is the sentence in Colorado going to violate her human rights, so they shouldn’t extradite her back to Colorado?” Robertson explained. “The court today found no, that isn’t a violation of her human rights and does authorize the extradition.”

While the judge’s ruling is a significant milestone, it is not the final word. Singler’s legal team has 14 days to file an appeal. Robertson outlined the potential next steps.

“She will likely appeal, which will go to the High Court of London and then maybe even to the Supreme Court of England depending on what those rulings are,” he said. “Unfortunately, for people who are wanting this trial to happen next week or next month, there’s still probably going to be a little bit of a waiting game.”

Robertson also explained that the appeals process would focus more on the legal analysis rather than the factual details of the case. If Singler’s appeal is successful, the process could be extended even further, delaying her return to Colorado to face charges of murder, attempted murder, and child abuse.