Prosecutors in Arizona Reject Extradition Request in SoHo Murder Case
New York – Prosecutors in Arizona have refused to extradite Raad Almansoori, the man accused of murdering a woman in SoHo, citing a lack of trust in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Reasons for the Rejection
Almansoori, who is currently in custody in Arizona for stabbing two women, is facing charges for the SoHo murder in New York. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell stated that she will not agree to the extradition request due to concerns about the treatment of violent criminals by Alvin Bragg, Manhattan District Attorney.
Response from Manhattan District Attorney’s Office
A spokesperson from the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, Emily Tuttle, called Mitchell’s comments “deeply disturbing” and accused her of “playing political games in a murder investigation.” Tuttle emphasized that New York is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its citizens, highlighting the significant decrease in murders and shootings since Bragg took office.
Expert Opinions
Concerns have been raised about the unprecedented refusal to grant extradition by Mitchell. Criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor David Schwartz criticized Mitchell’s statement as unconstitutional and politically motivated. Schwartz emphasized that the Manhattan DA is fully capable of trying the case and ensuring the appropriate treatment of the accused.
Almansoori Allegedly Admits to New York Murder
Police in Arizona have reported that Almansoori confessed to killing an individual in New York earlier this month. The NYPD believes Almansoori used an iron to attack Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, resulting in her death at a SoHo hotel.
Connection to Other Crimes
Investigators suspect that Almansoori may be connected to additional crimes. The NYPD is working with the FBI to explore this possibility further.
Background: Almansoori’s Criminal History
Almansoori also faces charges of sexually assaulting a woman in Florida in April. These charges, along with aggravated assault, were subsequently dropped. The decision by Florida prosecutors to drop these charges has been criticized, with the state acknowledging the impact this can have on victims and communities.
Reaction and Call for Extradition
Concerned about Almansoori’s alleged violent tendencies, Leah Palian, who was with the victim during the Florida attack, pleads for authorities to take his case seriously. She believes that if the charges were dismissed lightly, he may escalate his violent behavior.
The family of Denisse Oleas-Arancibia, the woman killed in SoHo, expressed their devastation and remembered her as a hardworking, intelligent, and vibrant individual.
