Rape suspect admits to faking death, lying about identity

This article mentions sexual assault. If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673.

( NewsNation ) — Nicholas Alahverdian admitted Wednesday he faked death and lied about his identity before fleeing to Europe.

Alahverdian, also known as Nicholas Rossi, finally gave up the ruse at a bail hearing in a Salt Lake City, Utah court while facing accusations that he raped his ex-girlfriend following an argument in 2008.

He is also accused of raping a 21-year-old woman in Utah during the same year. Alahverdian said during the hearing he did not flee the country due to rape charges, but rather threats on his life.

According to NewsNation affiliate WPRI , Alahverdian testified he fled the United States and altered his identity after elected officials in Rhode Island allegedly threatened him.

The 37-year-old would not name the individuals, telling the prosecution, “I don’t want to give a mouse cheese.”

Alahverdian refused to appear at a court hearing in January about the alleged rape of the unnamed 21-year-old in 2008.

He was arrested in Scotland in 2021 after being recognized in Glasgow, the nation’s capital, while being treated for COVID-19.

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