Gary McKinnon loses case to avoid extradition, could face 60 years in jail

Hacker Gary McKinnon has failed in his last attempt to avoid extradition to the United States where he could face 60 years in prison.

McKinnon has admitted hacking into the systems of the US defence department and Nasa, but has campaigned to be tried for the crimes in Britain.

His defence argued that the court should be sympathetic towards him because he suffers from Asperger’s syndrome. They also said extradition arrangements between Britain and the US are imbalanced, with twice as many British suspects facing trial being extradited to America as those who have gone the other way.

McKinnon hacked into 97 computers, causing damage which the US government said would cost $700,000 to repair.

His mother has held a high-profile campaign supporting his plea to stay in the UK, including meeting Sarah Brown and garnering support from celebrities.

See also: Hacker Gary McKinnon - Essential Guide

Updated: McKinnon case thrown out by High Court