American fugitive accused of faking death can be extradited from Scotland, says judge
An American fugitive accused of faking his own death to avoid a rape charge in Utah may be extradited to the United States, according to a Scottish judge. The man, known in Scotland as Nicholas Rossi, has been fighting against his return since his arrest in December 2021 at a Glasgow hospital, where he was being treated for COVID-19. Despite appearing in court and television interviews claiming to be an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight, Judge Norman McFadyen of Edinburgh Sheriff Court dismissed his claims as implausible and fanciful.
Describing the man as dishonest and deceitful, McFadyen stated that Rossi’s character had complicated the case. The judge found the fugitive’s evidence unreliable and stated that he would not accept any statement of fact made by him without independent support. Scottish government ministers will review the ruling before deciding whether to issue an extradition order.
The accused, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, faces a 2008 rape charge in Utah. He is also facing additional sexual assault charges in Orem and Salt Lake County, Utah. Authorities said Rossi is one of several aliases used by the 36-year-old. Utah investigators revealed similar complaints against Rossi, where he would allegedly meet women online before engaging in inappropriate contact after meeting in public places.
Alahverdian’s alleged faked death came to light when Rhode Island state police, alongside his former lawyer and foster family, cast doubt on the claims. Alahverdian had previously announced he had late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma and had just weeks to live. An online obituary was published, stating that he died on February 29, 2020.
Salt Lake District Attorney Sim Gill emphasized that the extradition would make Alahverdian accountable for his alleged crimes in Utah. However, there is a presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law.
The decision to extradite the fugitive demonstrates the determination to pursue justice, even in complex cases involving elaborate schemes. As the legal proceedings continue, the accused will face the consequences of his actions if found guilty.
