Today, the mentally ill man accused of stabbing heroic EMT Allison Russo-Elling entered a not guilty plea and was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
After a grand jury indicted him for murder, Peter Zisopoulos, age 34, appeared virtually before a court.
Psychiatric examination continues at Bellevue Hospital.
His counsel submitted a not guilty plea for him after explaining why they were in court.
Zisopoulos, who appeared via video link, had a medical wristband and a thin shirt.
He expressed opposition to the proceedings and appeared perplexed by them.
“My client’s psychiatric history dates to 2018,” He can not comprehend the charges against him, so we are requesting an examination.’
After a grand jury indicted him for murder, Peter Zisopoulos, age 34, appeared virtually before a court. He remains hospitalized at Bellevue Hospital for psychiatric examination.
Alison Russo-Elling, 61, was slain during her lunch break last week. The valiant EMT served the city for decades, including on September 11th, 2001.
The judge authorized the examination and deferred the case until November 29 for the results to be determined.
Yesterday, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz issued a statement declaring that he will be brought to justice.
This is a horrible case and a tragic loss for both the family and our city. Captain Alison Russo-Elling of the FDNY EMS has spent her whole 25-year career assisting those in need.
“Now, her family mourns her death because, as alleged, the defendant stabbed Ms. Russo-Elling to death near her Astoria workplace.”
We extend our sympathies to the family, friends, and coworkers she leaves behind.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz stated in a statement, “The defendant has been charged with murder and will face justice in our courts.”
Russo-Elling served the city of New York for decades.
Her casket, draped with the American flag, was hauled out of the FDNY ambulance before rows of emergency service members honoured the slain New York City firefighter.
Hundreds, including Eric Adams (above), attended Russo-funeral Elling’s on Wednesday afternoon, as seen in heartbreaking photographs.
She assisted on 9/11 and was adored by her coworkers, many of whom lined the streets of Brookville, Long Island, yesterday in a sorrowful funeral procession to bid her farewell.
Her family has pleaded with New York’s enlightened Democratic leaders to reclaim the city from crooks.
At her funeral, her mother questioned Mayor Eric Adams, “Weren’t you a police officer for 30 years?”
After Adams confirmed it, she replied, “You know what to do,” pleading with Adams, “Please return my city.”
Peter Zisopoulus, 34, is perp walked on Friday for the Thursday murder of an EMT on duty. He is depicted in a photograph wearing a white jumpsuit and handcuffs.