New Developments-Auto Shop Homicide
Murder Suspect is Fighting Extradition from Italy
ROME (AP) -- An Italian court is mulling over a bid by Connecticut state police to extradite a man for a triple homicide. The court in Rome Thursday heard arguments about whether to extradite Benedetto Cipriani, an Italian citizen wanted in connection with the execution-style killing of three men at a Windsor Locks car repair shop last year.
Cipriani is fighting the extradition despite Connecticut prosecutors' assurances that he will not face the death penalty. No decision was made at the end of today's hearing and a ruling is expected within days. Cipriani's lawyer says there will be an appeal if the court orders his extradition. Cipriani, who owns a home in Meriden, was picked up near Rome in April on an arrest warrant from Connecticut State Police.
If he is extradited, he will stand trial on three counts of murder and one count of conspiracy. Connecticut authorities accuse Cipriani of being the ringleader in a murder-for-hire plot that led to a triple homicide at B-and-B Automotive in July of 2003.
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