Trial Date Set for Former Fugitive Nicholas Alahverdian on Rape Charges
A Utah judge has scheduled a trial date for Nicholas Alahverdian, the former international fugitive from Rhode Island facing multiple rape charges. The jury selection for the case, which is unfolding in Utah County, will commence on April 21, pending any changes in plea. The judge has also set a deadline of January 17 for further motions, with a pretrial conference arranged for February 21.
Alahverdian, known in the Utah judicial system under the alias Nicholas Rossi, is also contending with a separate sexual assault charge in Salt Lake County, both stemming from incidents in 2008. During court proceedings last month, he acknowledged his true identity after spending three years asserting he was a man named Arthur Knight.
Investigators allege that Alahverdian faked his death in an effort to escape legal consequences for his actions. However, he was detained in 2021 at a hospital in Scotland while receiving treatment for COVID-19. Following an extensive legal struggle over his extradition, he was returned to the United States in January.
Born and raised in Rhode Island, Alahverdian was once a prominent figure, connected with lawmakers during his teenage years as a page at the State House. He later became known for advocating reforms in the state’s child welfare system.
The unfolding Alahverdian case has attracted media attention, with NBC 10’s Brian Crandall delving deeper into his story in the "International Mystery" podcast. As he prepares for trial, many are watching closely to see how the legal process will address the serious allegations against him.
Source
Photo credit turnto10.com
