A man wanted for an alleged child pornography offence in the United States has been arrested on a warrant at a Far South Coast property.
Police said Kevin James Burrows, 67, of Millingandi, west of Merimbula, was arrested on Monday, November 6, after an Australian Federal Police investigation, with officers from the Attorney General’s office.
Burrows did not apply for bail when his matter was mentioned later that day in Batemans Bay Local Court.
A NSW Justice spokesperson said Burrows was arrested between 5.30am and 9am on a warrant issued in the Australian Capital Territory.
A spokesperson from the Attorney-General’s Department confirmed the arrest was “in response to an extradition request made by the United States”.
“This individual is wanted to face prosecution in the United States for a child pornography (allegation),” the spokesperson said.
Burrows was taken to Batemans Bay Police Station where an international warrant was executed.
Police said Burrows was residing in Hedgesville, West Virginia when the US Marshals Mountain State Fugitive Task Force alleged he possessed a large amount of child pornography.
Authorities say Burrows fled in 2013 after an arrest warrant was issued, and is understood to have left behind a wife, two children and a job.
He will remain in custody until his next appearance to determine if he is eligible for surrender and extradition to the US.
A man identifying himself to the court as acting on behalf of US authorities said a notice had been issued to seek Burrows’ extradition. He sought to transfer the matter to Sydney, however, Magistrate Doug Dick ruled it would remain in Batemans Bay.
“I hope you like the South Coast … it’s staying here,” Mr Dick said.
Burrows is due to appear via audio-visual link in Batemans Bay Local Court on November 20.
A Millingandi resident said Burrows moved to the over 55s village, Acacia Ponds, about six months ago. Shown a photo, the resident said Burrows had grown a beard.
The house in which he is understood to have lived, is now for sale.
