Stabbings suspect unlikely to return to Michigan soon

August 15, 2010 at 12:00a.m.

Associated Press

DETROIT

Police in Michigan said Saturday they’ll use the time it takes to return an Israeli man suspected in a three-state stabbing spree that left five men dead to work out logistics and address concerns for his safety.

Elias Abuelazam is “not going to be brought back today, tomorrow or Monday,” Michigan State Police Lt. Stephen Sipes told The Associated Press. “We have 15 days to get him back. There is no hurry at the moment.”

The 33-year-old waived extradition to Michigan during a Friday court hearing in Atlanta.

Abuelazam was arrested there Wednesday as he prepared to board a flight to Tel Aviv. Along with attacks in Michigan, he is a suspect in stabbings in Virginia and Toledo, Ohio.

Michigan State Police and prosecutors said they’re working with their counterparts in those other states.

“There are security concerns for his safety and the safety of everyone,” Sipes said. “This is not a person wanted on an outstanding check warrant.”

He is a suspect in a total of 18 attacks. The first 14 occurred in and around Flint, Mich.