The Final Steps in Extradition of Prime Suspect in Easey Street Murders
The extradition of the prime suspect in the Easey Street murders is nearing its conclusion, with the Italian government giving the green light for the process to move forward. Perry Kouroumblis, the 65-year-old suspect, is expected to face charges in Victoria for the alleged double murder of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett in Melbourne in 1977.
Italian Government Approval
- Italian Justice Minister Carlo Nordio authorized the extradition on October 30.
- Kouroumblis was informed of the decision on Friday.
- The extradition is now awaiting final approval from the Rome Court of Appeal judge Aldo Morgini.
Legal Process in Rome
Kouroumblis’ lawyer in Rome, Serena Tucci, confirmed that the extradition is confirmed, and they are now awaiting the final approval from the judge of the Court of Appeal in Rome. Once approved, Australian police will bring Kouroumblis back to Australia to face trial.
Tucci mentioned that Kouroumblis maintained his innocence throughout the legal proceedings.
Background of the Case
Armstrong and Bartlett, aged 27 and 28, were found dead in their home on Easey Street in Collingwood on January 13, 1977. They had been brutally stabbed, and Armstrong had also been raped. Kouroumblis was considered a person of interest in the case at the time but was never charged.
After a reinvestigation into the crime, Kouroumblis agreed to provide DNA evidence but then fled to Greece, where he had been living since 2017 to avoid arrest due to the statute of limitations.
Current Status and Contact with Legal Representation
Tucci mentioned that Kouroumblis is in good spirits but slightly worried about the extradition process when she spoke to him. She is in regular contact with a lawyer representing Kouroumblis in Australia, who preferred not to be identified at this stage of the process.
The extradition process is expected to be finalized in the coming days, bringing closure to a decades-old case that shook the community and left lingering questions about justice.
Conclusion
The extradition of the prime suspect in the Easey Street murders marks a significant step towards justice for the victims, Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett. The legal proceedings in Italy and Australia are expected to bring closure to a long-standing case that has haunted the community for decades.
FAQ
What were the charges against Perry Kouroumblis?
Kouroumblis is facing charges for the alleged double murder of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett in Melbourne in 1977.
Why did Kouroumblis flee to Greece?
Kouroumblis fled to Greece in 2017 to avoid arrest due to the statute of limitations in the case.