Updated

Radovan Karadzic has asked a United Nations judge to release him pending his appeal against what the former Bosnian Serb leader called his "monstrous" conviction for genocide and other atrocities.

Karadzic made the comment Wednesday in his first appearance at the Yugoslav war crimes tribunal since being sentenced to 40 years imprisonment for the crimes during Bosnia's 1992-95 war. He also complained about the detention conditions and asked for a new laptop to help him prepare his case.

Karadzic's American lawyer, Peter Robinson, told Judge Theodor Meron that Karadzic has been distressed since his conviction, saying the former leader has been "like a caged tiger."

Meron said he would look into the request for a new laptop and told Karadzic to put his appeal for release in a written motion.