Alleged war criminal loses extradition hearing
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Charles Zentai must now appeal to the Federal Attorney General or the Federal Court. (ABC)
An 86-year-old man from Perth has been taken into custody after a magistrate ruled he was eligible to be extradited to Hungary to face a charge of murdering a Jewish teenager during World War II.
Charles Zentai has spent the past three years fighting the request from the Hungarian Government to be returned to face a charge of murder.
Today, Magistrate Barbara Lane ruled that all administrative requirements had been met for the extradition.
Despite today's decision the final ruling on Mr Zentai's fate rests with the Federal Attorney General.
Mr Zentai's lawyers can also appeal to the Federal Court.
Mr Zentai vehemently denies any involvement in the murder.
Father shattered
Outside the court, Mr Zentai's son, Gabriel Steiner said while today's decision was expected it is still very difficult for the family and his father.
"I could see he was pretty shattered," he said.
"I mean looking at his family from a distance and wondering if he is ever going to see them again.
"It's tragic to see an 86-year-old man in poor health being carted off like that."
