KARUNA SHINSHO, CNN ANCHOR: A French court is recommending the extradition to the U.S. of James Kopp, who is wanted for the murder of an abortion doctor in New York State in 1998. As Peter Humi reports, the case comes as Europeans are becoming more concerned about the use of the death penalty in the U.S.</s>PETER HUMI, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The courts recommendation does not necessarily mean James Kopp will be on trial for murder in the United States any time soon. The extradition will need the final go-ahead from the French government. In common with other European countries, France does not allow the extradition of prisoners who could face capital punishment. However, United States authorities have assured their French counterparts, Kopp, if found guilty, will face life in prison without parole. Kopp was arrested by French police in Brittany three months ago after fleeing the United States in 1998. The 46-year-old native of California was on the FBI's Most Wanted List for the suspected murder of Dr. Barnett Slepian in New York State. An anti-abortion activist Kopp is accused of shooting Slepian dead at his home in Amhurst. Slepian is known to have performed abortions at clinics often targeted by activists. Defense lawyer's also claim Kopp would not receive a fair trial in the United States, blaming media coverage of the case is -- quote -- "biased and unfair to their client." Since his arrest, Kopp has maintained his innocence. This case comes at a time of mounting campaigns across Europe against the death penalty, a campaign which has targeted the United States in particular. Peter Humi, CNN, Paris.
French Court Recommending Extradition to U.S. of James Kopp