Murder suspect has an extensive history of felonies

Fargo, ND (WDAY TV) - There is new information about the suspect in the murder of south Fargo Dentist, Philip Gattuso. Michael Nakvinda of Oklahoma City has an extensive history of felonies dating back years. The 41-year-old pleaded guilty to a rash of 1993 home invasions.

The case involved 100 counts for crimes like kidnapping, rape, and armed robbery. Prosecutors say Nakvinda was part of a gang that targeted victims who had large amounts of jewelry and money. He got a ten-year-term on robbery charges. Nakvinda also has a firearms conviction.

Official charges for Nakvinda are anticipated to be filed in district court tomorrow and Cass County State's Attorney Birch Burdick says there could be a whole host of charges.

Burdick says they want Nakvinda up here and that they will begin the extradition process which if challenged, could delay Nakvinda's return to Fargo. He'll first appear in court in Oklahoma. The extradition could be waved or challenged. If challenged, the process could take up to 60 days.

"If he waves extradition, then usually, that person will leave the jurisdiction where they are and head towards the jurisdiction within 10 days."

Fargo Police say Fargo officers are still in Oklahoma, continuing to investigate whether anyone else is involved in this complex case. As we wait for charges and more details, people living near the scene of the murder are still in shock.

Some people now feel there's no danger to the community since a suspect is in custody. Some of Phillip Gatusso's neighbors tell WDAY 6 News it is a relief, hearing the man behind bars is not from anywhere around our area.

Neighbors say that relief still does not change what happened and the fact the suspect, Michael Nakvinda, is from Oklahoma City does nothing to help the family in this tragic case. Everyone we spoke with in this small condo complex says they love their small neighborhood and remain in shock, wondering how this happened to their quite, polite neighbor.

Everyone we talked with declined to do so, on camera.

Tags: todd kurtz, fargo, crime, gattuso, news