Today, in the Vladimir Garrison Military Court, the trial of political prisoner Alexei Gorinov, a former municipal deputy who has already been sentenced to 7 years for military «fakes», began, and he is now accused of «justifying terrorism».
As reported by the correspondent of SOTAvision*, Gorinov was brought into the courtroom in handcuffs and under escort. «They lead me everywhere like a dog!» Gorinov protested.
The politician took out a poster with a peace sign and the inscription «Stop Killing. Let's Stop the War». The bailiff demanded to remove the poster and then tried to take it away. Gorinov refused, calling the poster evidence, and demanded that the bailiff seize it according to procedural norms — with the drafting of a seizure report.
Before the session, lawyer Savelieva stated that Gorinov is suffering from bronchitis and finds it difficult to travel to court, where he has to stay in cold rooms. Gorinov will prepare for each session himself, despite likely returning to the detention center late at night.
Before the session, Gorinov managed to comment on the exchange of political prisoners.
«These are citizens, Russians, how can they exchange some for others? It's very strange, it's shameful for our authorities, for our country, but for political prisoners, it's some kind of way out», the ex-municipal deputy believes, noting that the freedom of exchanged political prisoners is «relative», but he is glad that «worthy people» represent Russia abroad.
«I personally did not kill anyone, did not rob, <...> but was deprived of freedom for seven years», Gorinov began his speech at the session. However, the judge interrupted him, demanding to speak «to the point». «The court should know how I ended up in this ward», Gorinov continued. And he explained how after an illness he expected to be sent back to the colony, but was sent to a ward with two repeat offenders. One of them started watching the news and asking Gorinov questions. Over 40 days, three pairs of people changed, one of whom provoked Gorinov into statements. Recording was done even when people went to the toilet. Over time, two of Gorinov's remarks were recorded, which were charged as «justifying terrorism».
«It is written that I have a negative attitude towards the residents of Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk regions. All this is the product of the imagination of a young investigator. Essentially just scoundrels. I asked him directly why he made this up, and he naively replied that without such wording it was impossible to hold me accountable. In reality, I am a convinced internationalist and do not accept war. Planet Earth is our common home. These long-suffering residents are deceived in their expectations», Gorinov is quoted by RusNews. After which the judge accused Gorinov of insulting an officer and threatened a criminal case for contempt of court.
Today, the court heard the testimony of Gorinov's cellmate, whose testimony completely repeated the prosecution's narrative.
* Recognized in Russia as a «foreign agent» and «undesirable» organization.