Poland to compare photos of Minnesota man in Nazi crimes probe

A Polish prosecutor pursuing a Nazi crimes investigation of a Minnesota man says experts will compare the man's photos with that of a Nazi commander to make sure they are the same person.

The Associated Press has identified the man, Michael Karkoc, as a World War II commander of a unit in the SS-led Ukrainian Self Defense Legion, which is accused of burning villages in Poland.

Poland is investigating Karkoc, 97, who denies that he fought in the war. Confirming his identity is key if an extradition is to be sought.

Prosecutor Dariusz Antoniak said Thursday experts are to confirm whether Karkoc is the same person as the Nazi commander by comparing photos of Karkoc with a 1940 photo of the commander, taken in Ukraine.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.