A HOLIDAYMAKER extradited from the North-East to face a charge of attempted murder in Greece has been jailed for three-and-a-half years after being convicted of a less offence.
Michael Tonge, 28, was on holiday on Crete with friend Lee Yarrow when he was set upon by a group of Greek men during an attempted mugging almost eight years ago.
The pair, from North Tyneside, were released and returned to Britain, but in December they were extradited in handcuffs to stand trial.
After a 13-hour hearing on Wednesday, Tonge convicted of a lesser "misdemeanour" offence and sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison, while Mr Yarrow, 31, was cleared.
Tonge's lawyers have launched an immediate appeal which is expected to be heard within the next three months.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article