In the detention center, Novak is awaiting an appeal against the sentence. Her defender is unaware of why the journalist was placed on preventive record, and he will appeal the actions of the institution's administration in court.
According to a source familiar with Novak's case, as a result of being placed on record, her conditions of detention are likely to be tightened.
"This may be expressed in 'preventive conversations' with the inmate, increased control over them (in particular, it may be forbidden to turn off the light in the cell at night), additional searches. Placing an inmate on 'preventive record' reduces the chances of parole," the lawyer told "Sibir.Realii"*.
In November 2024, Nika Novak was sentenced to four years in a colony. According to the investigation, Novak helped the "foreign organization" ("Radio Liberty") prepare "false materials discrediting the Russian authorities and army" for money. She became the first journalist to be accused under the article on "cooperation with a foreign organization" after its introduction into legislation.
* Recognized in Russia as a "foreign agent" and "undesirable" organization.