Scammer Who Claimed to Be an Irish Heiress Should Be Extradited to UK, Judge Rules

PORTLAND, Maine—A convicted scammer who claimed to be an Irish heiress and who is accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars from several victims should be extradited to the United Kingdom, a federal court has ruled. Marianne Smyth, who accusers say has also fashioned herself as a witch, a psychic, and a friend to Hollywood stars, has been in a Maine jail waiting to learn if she will be extradited. She faces allegations that she stole more than $170,000 from the victims from 2008 to 2010 in Northern Ireland. U.S. Magistrate Judge John Nivison ruled on Thursday that there is sufficient evidence to certify Ms. Smyth’s extradition to the UK to face charges. Judge Nivison wrote that Ms. Smyth will be in custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a decision on extradition by Secretary of State Antony Blinken....