Utah man accused of faking death opts to represent himself against rape allegations

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PROVO, Utah (ABC4) — Nicholas Rossi, the man accused of faking his death to escape two rape charges in Utah among other criminal charges nationwide, elected to represent himself as court proceedings move forward.

Rossi’s decision comes as he appeared in court in person for the first time since being extradited to Utah in January of this year. In the months since, Rossi has attempted to secure the funding to hire his own defense attorney as opposed to being represented by a public defender though has apparently failed to do so.

Rossi, who continues to insist that he is instead Arthur Knight and not the man prosecutors say he is, told the court he has studied law in England and Wales as well as a considerable amount of law in Scotland. However, he admitted his knowledge of American criminal law would need “brushing up.”

During Tuesday’s court appearance, Judge Derek Pullan repeatedly questioned Rossi about his decision, emphasizing that he felt it was not a good idea. Pullan insisted Rossi would be better represented by a trained lawyer rather than by himself.

“You are not familiar with Utah law, the rules of evidence or the rules of procedure, and I would strongly urge that you not represent yourself,” said Pullan.

Rossi told Pullan that it was “not ideal, but necessary” to represent himself as he felt he would be the only one with sufficient knowledge of his own case. Pullan said it was not “necessary” and he would give the public defender time to become acquainted with the case but Rossi still refused.

Pullan told Rossi he faces a difficult and “awkward” trial ahead as he cannot provide any assistance to Rossi during the case. He also made it clear that Rossi faces a minimum sentence of five years in prison, up to life without parole.

“Let me be clear, that means you will die in prison,” said Pullan.

“That’s a chance I’m willing to take, your Honor,” replied Rossi.

Pullan told Rossi he could change his mind and request a public defender at a later time. Rossi will be due back in court for a preliminary hearing on June 18 at 8:30 a.m. During the hearing, state prosecutors will present their burden of proof to move forward with a trial.