Table of Contents
- Fugitive Captured After International Manhunt
- Court Hears From Multiple Victims
- Who Is Nicholas Rossi?
- Europe Escape and Eventual Arrest
- Upcoming Sentencing in Second Rape Case
- Sources
Fugitive Captured After International Manhunt
Nicholas Rossi, a 38-year-old Utah man who fled to Europe to evade rape charges, has been sentenced to at least five years in prison after a judge described him as a “serial abuser of women.” The sentencing, handed down this week in Salt Lake City, marks a major milestone in a case that spanned continents and drew international attention.
Rossi’s capture followed a months-long manhunt that involved Interpol, U.S. Marshals, and European authorities after he vanished in 2023 while out on bail.
Court Hears From Multiple Victims
During the sentencing hearing, the judge reviewed victim impact statements from several women who accused Rossi of sexual assault over a period of years. Prosecutors emphasized a pattern of predatory behavior, manipulation, and coercion.
“The statements paint a consistent and disturbing picture,” said Judge Maria Lopez. “Mr. Rossi exploited trust, isolated his victims, and showed no remorse. This court finds him to be a serial abuser of women.”
Though the current sentence carries a minimum of five years, Utah law allows for enhancements based on aggravating factors, and prosecutors are expected to seek a longer term during final sentencing next month in a separate but related rape case.
Who Is Nicholas Rossi?
Once described by acquaintances as charismatic and well-connected in local fitness and social circles, Rossi used his charm to gain access to vulnerable women, according to court documents. Several victims said he posed as a mentor or friend before assaulting them.
One survivor told investigators Rossi recorded some encounters without consent—a detail that heightened concerns about potential additional victims and digital evidence still being reviewed by law enforcement.
Europe Escape and Eventual Arrest
After being charged in 2023, Rossi was released on bail but failed to appear for a court date. Authorities later learned he had flown to Italy using a passport under an alias. He then moved between Spain, Greece, and France, living under the radar while working odd jobs.
His location was finally uncovered when he applied for a local gym membership in Barcelona using a variation of his real name. Spanish police, acting on a U.S. extradition request, arrested him in early 2024. He was extradited to Utah this past summer.
Upcoming Sentencing in Second Rape Case
Rossi is scheduled to be sentenced next month in a second felony rape case involving a different victim. That conviction, secured earlier this year while he was still in Europe, could add decades to his prison term.
Advocates for sexual assault survivors say the case underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation and the need for stricter bail conditions in violent felony cases.
“He thought he could disappear and start over,” said Utah prosecutor Lena Choi. “But thanks to relentless detective work and courageous survivors, he’s now facing the consequences.”
Sources
Man Who Fled to Europe Gets at Least 5 Years for Rape, Prosecutors Say – The New York Times
