18 April 2014, 15:14
Removed Astrakhan Mayor Stolyarov refuses to plead guilt of bribe-taking
On April 18, the Kirov District Court of Astrakhan began considering the criminal case against the removed City Mayor Mikhail Stolyarov, accused of taking a bribe. The court listened to the prosecution, while the defendant has refused to plead guilty.
Despite the fact that Mikhail Stolyarov and his advocates were against the presence of journalists at the session, arguing that "the permanent presence of the media will prevent a fair hearing," Judge Natalia Senchenko allowed reporters to be present in the courtroom.
The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Stolyarov was detained on suspicion of taking a bribe on November 13, 2013. He was charged under Part 6, Article 290 of the Russian Criminal Code. In late March, the Investigating Committee of the Russian Federation (ICRF) completed the consideration of the case; and the General Prosecutor's Office (GPO) sent it to the court.
Let us remind you that earlier Stolyarov maintained his innocence and refused to cooperate with the investigation.
Author: Elena Grebenyuk Source: CK correspondent
