Judge to UOJ journalist: What are we supposed to do, listen to you?
Valeriy Stupnitsky speaks in court via video link. Photo: screenshot of UOJ video
On July 3, 2024, a session was held in the Court of Appeals to consider the appeal of UOJ journalist Valeriy Stupnitsky against the decision of the Solomianskyi court to extend his detention for another two months until August 12, 2024. The authorities refused to transport Stupnitsky to the court building, instead connecting him to the session via video link from the pre-trial detention center.
The panel of judges – V. Gul., Ya. Melnyk, Yu. Matvienko – decided to reject the appeal and keep the journalist in custody.
The session had several notable features.
In particular, V. Stupnitsky was not given a full opportunity to speak in his defense. During his speech, one of the three judges interrupted him, stating that "they are not here to listen to articles." The lawyer's remark that this information was directly related to the case did not convince the judge. He told the defense that the judges did not convene to analyze the case materials. The judge then gave the floor to the prosecutor, who assured the attendees that the suspicion against the journalist was "well-substantiated".
The judges retired to the deliberation room for no more than two minutes. The entire session lasted about 13-15 minutes.
🙏 You can help the defense of Orthodox journalists using the following details:
Card: 5375 4112 1710 9227, send.monobank.ua
As the UOJ previously reported, the SBU added new charges to the UOJ case.
Read also
Major U.S. hospital network refuses to implement new assisted suicide law
Advocate Health Care said it would not participate in Illinois’ assisted suicide program.
OCU activists call TRC to service of persecuted UOC community in Kremenchuk
After seizing the Holy Trinity Church in Kremenchuk, Dumenko's followers attempted to disrupt the worship service of UOC believers held in the open air.
Bila Tserkva authorities attempting to seize monastery building from UOC
The Bila Tserkva City Council is attempting to reclaim the buildings of the St. Mary Magdalene Convent for communal ownership through the courts.
Egyptian police arrest Christians targeted in Muslim attacks
Copts were released once they withdrew their complaints against their assailants.
Primate of Macedonian Church congratulates Lavra's abbot on name day
Archbishop Stefan noted the zeal of the Lavra's abbot, who shares the sorrows of his flock.
Persecuted community in Stari Broskivtsi marks patronal feast in new church
The rector thanked the faithful for building a new church to replace the one that was seized.