Senator Marco Rubio has called for the extradition of Joanne Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur, from Cuba. Shakur, convicted for the murder of a New Jersey state trooper in 1973, has been living in Cuba for over forty years. "The Cuban regime continues to provide sanctuary to terrorists and criminals, including fugitives from the United States," Rubio stated in a declaration to Fox News. "The heinous murder of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster will never be forgotten, and we will persist in our pursuit of justice," he emphasized.
Rubio insists that ensuring Cuba is held accountable is an unwavering obligation to both the victims and the American people. The sentiment was echoed by New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, who expressed his desire for Chesimard to serve a life sentence. "I want her yesterday, and I have Trooper Foerster's handcuffs ready to put on her when she lands on that runway, wherever it may be," he added.
On Friday, the U.S. government reiterated its call for Chesimard's extradition, bringing the case back into the public eye. The FBI continues to offer a reward of up to $1,000,000 for information leading directly to the capture of Joanne Chesimard, who escaped from a New Jersey prison while serving a life sentence for the murder of a state trooper on May 2, 1973.
In 2013, Assata Shakur became the first woman to be added to the FBI's list of most-wanted terrorists. U.S. authorities label her a "domestic terrorist" and caution that she is considered "armed and dangerous." The case has long been a source of tension in diplomatic relations between Washington and Havana.
While the U.S. demands her extradition, Cuban officials maintain that Shakur is a political refugee. Her story is polarizing; whereas the FBI views her as a dangerous criminal, civil rights organizations and activists regard her as a symbol of black resistance in the United States. Her autobiography, published in 1987 from Cuba, remains influential in academic and activist circles. Additionally, as the godmother of the late rapper Tupac Shakur, her legacy continues to resonate in African American popular culture.
The possibility of Shakur's extradition has surfaced in various discussions, including bilateral negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba, but no progress has been made. Currently, it is estimated that over 70 American fugitives reside in the Caribbean nation.
FAQs on U.S. Fugitives in Cuba
Why is Assata Shakur wanted by the FBI?
Assata Shakur is wanted by the FBI for escaping from a New Jersey prison while serving a life sentence for the 1973 murder of a state trooper. She was added to the FBI's list of most-wanted terrorists in 2013.
What is the current U.S. stance on Shakur's extradition?
The U.S. government continues to demand her extradition from Cuba, reiterating its calls for her return as a matter of justice for the murder of Trooper Werner Foerster.
How does Cuba view Assata Shakur?
Cuba regards Assata Shakur as a political refugee and has not agreed to her extradition, citing political persecution as the reason for her asylum.