Manhattan DA pushes to extradite suspect Raad Almansoori in Queens mom's hotel murder
MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Manhattan prosecutors have formally requested the extradition of Raad Almansoori, the career criminal accused in the brutal killing of a Queens mother at a Soho hotel, as they continue their determined quest for justice.
Despite a prolonged standoff with Arizona authorities, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg remains steadfast in his determination to bring Almansoori back to face murder and robbery charges.
Raad Almansoori's alleged confession reveals gruesome details of Soho hotel killing
Almansoori, 26, stands accused of the Feb 7 beating and strangling of 38-year-old Denisse Oleas-Arancibia in a room at the Soho 54 Hotel.
He reportedly admitted to the murder when apprehended in Arizona — recounting how the victim "just wouldn't die," as stated by local prosecutors. Oleas-Arancibia, who was employed as an escort, had arranged a meeting with her alleged assailant.
A dispute over the duration of paid time led to a violent altercation, with authorities alleging that he strangled her. Reportedly, he attempted to break her neck while choking her and then proceeded to repeatedly stomp on her head.
Prosecutors claim that he later placed a sock over her head in an attempt to suffocate her.
Manhattan DA vows justice as prosecutors prepare for extradition
With the indictment secured, Bragg's office is poised to request that New York Governor Kathy Hochul issue a warrant for Almansoori's extradition from Maricopa County in Arizona.
"Our professional, dedicated prosecutors and investigators will continue to build the strongest possible case, and we will be prepared to prosecute Raad Almansoori for these horrific allegations when he is returned to New York," stated Bragg.
“My heart is with the family and loved ones of Ms Oleas-Arancibia during this difficult time as they continue to mourn their loss, as well as the victims of Almansoori’s alleged crimes in Maricopa County,” reported the New York Post.
Despite the resistance from Arizona authorities, Bragg remains resolute, emphasizing the importance of honoring the victims and their families. Almansoori's continued custody is anticipated pending the resolution of his Arizona cases, ensuring his availability to face murder charges in New York.
Almansoori's arrest in Arizona on attempted murder, assault, and kidnapping charges came just days after the alleged murder of Oleas-Arancibia. Surveillance footage captured him leaving the hotel, adorned in the victim's pink tights, further implicating him in the heinous crime.
Further, the extradition process has been marred by political disputes, with Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell expressing distrust in Bragg's ability to detain Almansoori in New York.
However, Bragg has remained steadfast in his commitment to prioritize the interests of the victims and their families over political posturing.
