Similarly, people who had faced capital prosecutions for crimes they committed as juveniles can now be sentenced, at worst, only to life terms.

"They fear that if they lose power, not only will all their goodies be cut off, but that they will face the danger of prosecution for past crimes."

This extradition case is unusual because governments usually refuse to extradite people to face trial for political crimes such as treason and espionage.

Howard is threatened by Martin Burns (Phil Davis), a former business partner who plans to testify against him, and faces imprisonment for unspecified crimes.

Very probably some will face trial for serious crimes.

"If we had had a court like the I.C.C. now, these guys would face trials for crimes against humanity," he said.

It is difficult for many to go home because there is no general amnesty for exiles and they could face prosecution for crimes connected with their political activities.

Mr. Brown added that she also faced outstanding warrants in New Jersey and Pennsylvania for unspecified crimes.

Asked about capital punishment, Mr. Clinton expressed concern about racial disparities among those facing execution for federal crimes.

There were requests from several countries for Pinochet to be extradited and face trial for crimes against humanity.