Julian Assange Needs A Qualified Interpreter, 'Allegations Must Be Communicated In A Language He Understands'

Christina Voigt, an experienced prosecutor who was involved in a Swedish case that utilized an interpreter, is not surprised when told the interpreter in her case drastically shortened the victim's statement, according to The Local.

"It happens… Sometimes, for example, we are very surprised when a long statement is translated as a simple yes or no."

"Different interpreters translate differently, and the real words get lost on the way."

Also, interpreters should never interject their own words, phrases, or expressions, according to the website Utah Courts. In some cases, words that are technical or use specialized terminology are unfamiliar to the interpreter.

Joakim Von Braun, a former adviser to Säpo, believes there are espionage cells working as interpreters who spy on asylum seekers, according to The Local.

"Joakim Von Braun, a former advisor to the Swedish Security Service (Säpo), believes there are still espionage cells working in sensitive government offices and as interpreters who are actively spying on defectors and asylum seekers."

"Most people think of interpretation as just word substitution, but it's so much more than that because you're not translating words, you're translating meaning. In many instances, you're interpreting cultural import, and you have to have a little cultural understanding. It takes a lot of skills to be an interpreter, and that takes training and technique."

"Julian Assange has always wanted to tell his version to the Swedish police. He wants a chance to clear his name."

The idea of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange being delivered into American custody by Swedish officials frightens many supporters. The U.S. Justice Department could charge the anti-government-secrecy activist with espionage offenses over WikiLeak's release of classified U.S. files, according to NBC News. According to the Independent, there are several right-wing American politicians who are pressing for Julian's prosecution and even execution.

The Telegraph reported Sarah Palin, the former vice-presidential candidate, questioned why Julian is not being pursued with the same urgency as al-Qaeda and Taliban leaders. The U.S. has not executed a person for espionage since Julius and Ethel Rosenberg in 1952, according to The Atlantic.

John Pilger, who offered to pay bail, said Assange's work is an act of public service.

"I think the work he has done has been a public service. I think we are entitled to know the dealings of those that govern us."

Even if the rape allegation is dropped, British police could still arrest Julian for violating the terms of his bail agreement when he sought asylum at the Ecuadorean embassy in London.

District Judge Riddle stated the severity of the case, according to the Independent.

"This case is not, on the face of it, about WikiLeaks. It is an allegation in another European country of serious sexual offenses alleged to have occurred on three separate occasions and involving two separate victims. These are extremely serious allegations. From that, it seems to me that if these allegations are true, then no one could argue the defendant should be granted bail… If they are false, he suffers a great injustice if he is remanded in custody. At this stage in these proceedings, the nature and strength of the allegations are not known."