A lawyer fighting against the extradition of a rape suspect wanted in the US has argued in court that it would constitute a “flagrant violation” of his client’s human rights. Mungo Bovey KC presented his case at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, shortly after proceedings were adjourned due to an interruption by the suspect, Nicholas Rossi, who expressed a desire to dismiss his lawyer.
Rossi, 35, is sought by US authorities in connection with alleged offences, including rape, and is contesting extradition. During the adjournment, Mr Bovey raised concerns about Rossi’s citizenship, arguing that he had not been proven to be a US national.
The lawyer presented several points highlighting potential breaches of Rossi’s rights if he were to be extradited. These included difficulties in engaging with lawyers and the conditions of prisons. Mr Bovey noted that prisons in Utah, where Rossi would be held, faced staffing shortages, provided inadequate medical care, and had a higher-than-average rate of suicide deaths.
Another concern raised was that, in the event of a conviction, Rossi’s sentence would be determined by an executive board rather than a judicial body, which could be considered a further violation of his rights.
The hearing resumed following the adjournment, with no further mention of Rossi’s demands. Sheriff Norman McFadyen issued a warning to Rossi, stating that disruptive behaviour could result in his removal from court.
Rossi’s arrest in the UK took place over two years ago, following allegations of offences committed in the US. He was apprehended in December 2021 while receiving treatment for COVID at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. US authorities allege that Rossi faked his own death in 2020 and fled to the UK to avoid prosecution.

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