Tommy Schaefer, 32, an American convicted of murder in Indonesia, was deported Tuesday and has arrived in the United States. Schaefer was released from prison on the island of Bali last week and transferred to an immigration detention facility before boarding a flight for the US.
Bali Murder Case Returns to US Soil
Schaefer was convicted in 2015 for the murder of Sheila von Wiese Mack, the mother of his then-pregnant girlfriend. He was originally sentenced to 18 years in prison but was released early due to good behavior, receiving a reduction of seven years. Indonesian immigration authorities stated their duty was to ensure Schaefer did not remain within Indonesian territory, citing the serious nature of the crime and its impact on public order.
Upon arrival in the United States, Schaefer is scheduled to appear in a Chicago courtroom on Thursday for an arraignment before District Judge Matthew Kennelly on conspiracy charges related to the 2014 murder. Court records indicate the hearing will take place at the Dirksen US Courthouse.
Schaefer’s former lawyer, Thomas Durkin, has died, and it is currently unknown whether he has retained novel legal counsel.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tommy Schaefer released from prison?
Tommy Schaefer was released from prison last week and moved to an immigration detention facility on Friday.
What charges will Schaefer face in the US?
Schaefer is set to appear in a Chicago courtroom on Thursday on conspiracy charges stemming from the 2014 murder.
What was the original sentence given to Schaefer in Indonesia?
A Bali court sentenced Schaefer to 18 years in prison in 2015 for the murder of Sheila von Wiese Mack.
As Schaefer prepares for his court appearance in Chicago, it remains to be seen how the US legal system will proceed with the case, and what further consequences he may face.
