Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Escaped U.S. Fugitive Seized in Italy Seeking Asylum

5/8/2026

48 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Lee Gilley escaped U.S. custody by removing his ankle monitor and was seized in Italy while seeking asylum.
Gilley fled Texas, traveled through Canada to Milan, and was placed in immigration detention.
A May 5 federal complaint says he used a forged passport and false Belgian ID to board.
Harris County Attorney’s office is coordinating with U.S. Marshals on extradition, noting Italy’s lack of the death penalty may affect it.

History

Historical Context

In 1990 the United States and Italy signed an extradition treaty listing 30 offenses and requiring a 90-day response to requests. That framework now guides Harris County Attorney’s Office and U.S. Marshals as they seek Lee Gilley’s surrender from Milan, while Italy’s abolition of the death penalty—reinforced by the Soering v. United Kingdom ruling—can delay the process.

1 of 2

Story summary

Lee Gilley escaped U.S. custody by removing his ankle monitor and was seized in Italy while seeking asylum.
Gilley fled Texas, traveled through Canada to Milan, and was placed in immigration detention.
A May 5 federal complaint says he used a forged passport and false Belgian ID to board.
Harris County Attorney’s office is coordinating with U.S. Marshals on extradition, noting Italy’s lack of the death penalty may affect it.

1 / 2