ND gov allows extradition of Montana kidnap suspects

BILLINGS (AP) — North Dakota's governor has signed papers authorizing the extradition of two men held in the kidnapping of a Montana teacher who is presumed dead.

A spokesman says Gov. Jack Dalrymple signed documents late Tuesday authorizing the extradition of 22-year-old Michael Spell and 47-year-old Lester Waters, Jr.

They are being held on $2.5 million bond each in the kidnapping of 43-year-old Sidney high school teacher Sherry Arnold.

An extradition hearing is scheduled for Feb. 14 in North Dakota district court in Williams County. That hearing still will be held unless the suspects waive their right to challenge extradition.

Arnold left her home for a run early in the morning of Jan. 7 and never returned. Her body has not been found. Authorities have released few details in the case.