UOJ journalists kept in SIZO despite medical conclusions and arguments

Orthodox journalists Valeriy Stupnitsky, Andriy Ovcharenko, Volodymyr Bobechko, and Father Serhiy Chertylin at a court hearing. Photo: UOJ

On June 10, 2024, another hearing was held regarding the case of Orthodox journalists and Archpriest Serhiy Chertylin in the Solomiansky District Court. As reported by the UOJ correspondent, the issue of measures of restraint was considered in connection with the extension of the pre-trial investigation for three months.

As the UOJ reported, on June 7, the court extended the pre-trial investigation until September 12.

During the June 10 hearing, the defense and the suspects themselves requested a less severe measure of restraint for them during this time since their guilt has not yet been proven. According to them, this could be house arrest, if necessary, with the wearing of an electronic bracelet and bail.

Valeriy Stupnitsky explained that the prosecution's arguments for his detention were unfounded. He pointed out that he voluntarily cooperated with the investigation, providing access and passwords to all electronic devices that were seized from him during the search. He has no contacts with witnesses, furthermore, he does not know them and therefore cannot and does not intend to influence them. He does not plan to leave the country, especially to move to Russia, which he is suspected of having connections with, as his publications on the UOJ website clearly indicate his position – condemning aggression and war against Ukraine. Similar arguments were made by other journalists, opposing the extension of detention as a measure of restraint.

Moreover, Volodymyr Bobechko and Andriy Ovcharenko stated that they need medical assistance due to chronic illnesses. In particular, Bobechko mentioned that part of his lungs had been removed, and he has several other chronic diseases that require constant medical supervision, examinations, and treatment. Andriy Ovcharenko has been diagnosed with a chronic neurological condition – lumbar osteochondrosis. Andriy emphasized that recently he could not leave his home for long periods because several times a day he used special spinal equipment, which he has at home.

Despite the journalists vehemently rejecting all accusations against them once again, confirming the lack of substantiated charges, as well as despite all medical prescriptions and conclusions, the judges kept them in prison without the right to bail.

Valeriy Stupnitsky, Andriy Ovcharenko, and Archpriest Serhiy Chertylin had their measure of restraint in the form of detention in SIZO extended until August 8. Volodymyr Bobechko's detention was extended until September 12.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote about the trial of UOJ members: about life in cells, judicial expertise, and the speed of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).

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