A fugitive who allegedly converted to Judaism in prison can be extradited to the US to face charges of rape and domestic violence, a court has ruled. 

Nicholas Rossi, also known as Nicholas Alahverdian, is wanted by authorities in Utah for allegedly raping a woman in 2008. He also faces multiple complaints for alleged domestic violence in Rhode Island.

However, the 35-year-old contested moves by authorities in the US to have him flown over to face legal proceedings. 

Rossi claims to be an Irish orphan called Arthur Knight, a victim of mistaken identity. The rape suspect was also accused of faking his own death to avoid prosecution.

Appearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday via video link from HMP Edinburgh, Rossi was told by Sheriff McFadyen there was no impediment to him being extradited.

He said: “I conclude that extradition would be compatible with the convention rights within the meaning of the Human Rights Act 1998 and that the question to that effect in section 87(1) of the 2003 Act must be answered in the affirmative.

"It follows that I must send the case of the requested person Nicholas Rossi to the Scottish ministers for their decision whether he is to be extradited.”

Criticising Rossi, he added: I conclude that he is as dishonest and deceitful as he is evasive and manipulative.

“These unfortunate facets of his character have undoubtedly complicated and extended what is ultimately a straightforward case.”

Rossi said he had been brought before the camera by “physical force” and he called the sheriff “a disgrace to justice”. But Sheriff McFadyen said Rossi was in court "voluntarily."

Rossi was arrested in Scotland around two years ago in connection with the alleged offences in the US.

He was being treated for Covid-19 at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow when he was detained in December 2021.

Rossi converted to Judaism while in HMP Edinburgh, where he has been held since 2022.

During a week-long hearing in June, Rossi wore what appeared to be a black legal gown and a yarmulke, a hat worn by Orthodox Jewish men.

Questioned about his dress in court, Rossi claimed the gown was called a bekishe, an overcoat also worn by Orthodox Jewish men.

During the June hearing, Rossi’s defence lawyer Mungo Bovey KC attempted to have the case discharged as his client is wanted for questioning about an alleged rape in England.

In addition, there were further attempts to delay proceedings amid assessments of Rossi's mental health, but three expert witnesses said he showed no signs of acute mental illness.

Bovey said in his closing argument that extradition to the US would be a “flagrant breach” of Rossi’s human rights. 

Giving evidence in his defence, Rossi also claimed he was unable to raise his arms above his head because he was too unwell.

He said the reason he used a wheelchair was because the muscles in his legs had been so badly atrophied that he is unable to walk or support himself.

However, these claims were disputed by one medical expert who told the court there was "no reason" for Rossi to be using an electric wheelchair.

The extradition request will now be considered by the Scottish Government, who are responsible for the justice system in Scotland under devolution.