WikiLeaks founder Assange seeks bail in London

LONDON (AP) — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange appeared today in a London court, seeking bail to get out of a British jail as he fights a Swedish request to extradite him in a sex-crimes investigation.

The 39-year-old Australian was brought into court in a prison van before the hearing as supporters and journalists gathered in the street and in the courtroom.

The City of Westminster Magistrates' court was packed with lawyers, journalists and celebrities, including filmmaker Ken Loach and socialite Jemima Khan who have both offered to contribute 20,000 pounds ($31,500) each in bond for Assange.

Assange is wanted for questioning after two women accused him of sexual misconduct in separate encounters in Sweden over the summer. Lawyers for Assange say he denies the allegations and will contest Sweden's attempt to extradite him for questioning.

Assange was placed into custody at a hearing a week ago after surrendering to Scotland Yard to answer a Swedish arrest warrant.