The court in Ghent, Belgium studying the possible extradition to Spain of Mallorcan rapper Josep Miguel Arenas, who performs as Valtònyc and has been convicted in Spain of glorifying terrorism and insulting the Spanish monarchy in his lyrics, has rejected his automatic extradition and adjourned until 3rd September to consider its decision.
Valtònyc has been free in Belgium since 5th July, having travelled to the country following the Spanish Supreme Court confirming his sentence of three and a half years in prison.
Before today's hearing, defence sources said they would, among other arguments, tell the court that the charges against the rapper have no equivalent in Belgian law, required for his extradition, and that, in any case, the acts he was convicted for fall under freedom of expression and shouldn't have been found to be criminal.
Valtònyc appeared in early July before the court considering the arrest warrant against him issued by Spain's National Audience court. The Belgian judge decided to leave him free whilst they consider the case, although they did prohibit him from leaving Belgian territory until they reach a verdict.
Sentenced to three and a half years
Public prosecutors in Eastern Flanders are now responsible for the European Arrest Warrant issued against the rapper, who faces three and a half years in prison for crimes of threats, glorifying terrorism and insulting the crown.
The second chamber of Spain's Supreme Court confirmed in late February the National Audience's sentence. The National Audience then, in late May, issued national, European and international search and arrest warrants against Valtònyc after he left Spain before the deadline for him to present himself voluntarily at prison.