Arizona officials refuse extradition of SoHo hotel murder suspect, citing concerns with Manhattan DA

Maricopa County attorney Rachel Mitchell has unequivocally stated that 26-year-old Raad Almonsoori will not be extradited to New York to face charges related to the murder of 38-year-old Denisse Oleas-Arancibia. Mitchell attributed this decision to concerns regarding the handling of violent criminals by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Almonsoori stands accused of brutally assaulting Oleas-Arancibia with an iron at the SoHo 54 hotel nearly two weeks ago. Mitchell’s reluctance to hand him over for prosecution in New York seems to stem from recent controversies surrounding Bragg’s approach to criminal cases.

Responding to Arizona’s decision, a spokesperson for the Manhattan DA’s office expressed deep dismay, characterizing the move as “deeply disturbing.” The office emphasized New York’s declining murder rate, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies. The spokesperson framed Arizona’s stance as a hindrance to seeking justice and accountability for the victim.

Authorities revealed that Almonsoori has a lengthy history of arrests in other states, including charges related to domestic violence and assault. His most recent arrest in Arizona was for the stabbing of an 18-year-old woman in Surprise. During interrogation, Almonsoori allegedly admitted involvement in a stabbing incident in Phoenix and the murder case in New York.

In contrast to the Manhattan DA’s office’s defense of Bragg’s record, Arizona officials have opted to detain Almonsoori in Maricopa County without bail. The decision reflects a broader concern for public safety and a preference for local prosecution over extradition to face charges in New York.

As tensions escalate between legal authorities in Arizona and New York, Almonsoori remains in custody, awaiting further proceedings. The case underscores the complexities of inter-state extradition and the divergent approaches to criminal justice across jurisdictions.