Christopher Raftopoulos: Alleged CBD stabber leaves prison psych unit

A Melton man accused of stabbing five strangers in Melbourne’s CBD and St Kilda has been released from a prison hospital.

A Melton man accused of a wild stabbing spree that left five people seriously injured has been released from psychiatric care ahead of his court hearings.

Christopher Raftopoulos, 31, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on April 23 via video link from Ravenhall Correctional Centre.

The court heard he had been released from Thomas Embling Hospital, a medium-security mental health hospital, a week prior to the matter being brought back before the court.

Mr Raftopoulos has been accused of stabbing five strangers on January 6 over a three-hour period in Melbourne’s CBD and in St Kilda.

Accused serial stabber Christopher Raftopoulos has been released from Thomas Embling.

He is also facing charges from 2020, 2021 and 2022, including unlawful assault, intentionally damaging property and intentionally causing injury.

Mr Raftopoulos unsuccessfully applied for bail in March.

In court on Tuesday, Mr Raftopoulos’ lawyer Richard Revill, requested more time to gather instructions.

“He’s not going anywhere for a while, as he is facing very serious charges,” Mr Revill said.

“I’m hoping we can have a good conversation about these matters.”

Magistrate David Starvaggi granted a “longer than usual” adjournment.

Mr Raftopoulos will return to the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on May 28 for further mention.