And the Worm Turns: Pinochet Daughter Seeks Asylum in US

Pinochet’s Daughter Seeks Asylum in U.S.
The Associated Press, January 26, 2006

Washington (AP) — U.S. officials are trying to decide whether to grant asylum to former Chilean dictator Gen. Augusto Pinochet’s oldest daughter, who was detained when she attempted to enter the country at Dulles International Airport.

Lucia Pinochet, 60, was detained Wednesday because of an outstanding arrest warrant in Chile in connection with an investigation of tax charges, customs officials said.

Chilean Interior Minister Francisco Vidal said U.S. Ambassador Craig Kelly had informed his government that she has requested asylum in the United States.

A State Department official confirmed the request and said she will be interviewed by an asylum officer as early as Thursday.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not formally authorized to disclose the information.

Lucia Pinochet has been indicted by a Chilean judge on tax evasion and false passport charges, Chilean and U.S. officials said.
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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/26/AR2006012600254.html

KJ