Italian courts have authorized the extradition of Dave “Pik” Turmel to Canada nearly a year after his arrest in Rome, Radio-Canada has learned.
Turmel, who was suspected of being the leader of the Blood Family Mafia (BFM) at the time of his arrest, now has 15 days to appeal the decision.
Turmel was apprehended in Italy in March of last year by Italian authorities in collaboration with the Quebec City police service (SPVQ).
He had been sought by the SPVQ since July 24, 2023, and was the subject of Canada-wide arrest warrants. In 2024, he was named Canada’s most-wanted fugitive by the Bolo Program, which alerts the public about dangerous criminals.
He faces numerous criminal charges, including drug trafficking, conspiracy and assault with a weapon causing bodily harm. He is also suspected of being linked to numerous other crimes committed in the province of Quebec.
Even if Turmel decides not to contest his extradition, his return to the country could still take time. Quebec police officers will have to travel to Italy to escort him back to Canada, where the judicial process can begin.
“As soon as the plane lands, Mr. Turmel will be placed under arrest again because he will be on Canadian soil,” said criminal defence lawyer Steven Slimovitch. “He will follow the same process as any Canadian accused.”
Italy approves extradition of Canada’s former most wanted fugitive
While Canada has an extradition treaty with Italy, Slimovitch notes that there is no guarantee the process will be swift. It is the Canadian government, not a court, that must make the request.
“It is not just a legal matter. It is absolutely a political matter. The Canadian government must want the accused repatriated. That can take time,” he said.
Another man, Roobens Denis, 31, was arrested last year in Portugal by local authorities there after being wanted by Quebec City police for seven months. Denis was considered by police to be the right-hand man of Turmel.
Denis was sentenced to 42 months in prison
