InfoHub Logo

A Russian court has handed down a sentence of 4.5 years in a general regime penal colony to well-known blogger Arsen Markaryan. He was found guilty of justifying Nazism and will also be barred from managing internet resources for a period of four years.

The 30-year-old blogger reportedly confessed to the charges and expressed remorse. During the court proceedings, Markaryan stated his intention to do everything possible to rectify his actions and requested a sentence that did not involve imprisonment. He highlighted his role as the sole provider for his family, which includes two young children, and mentioned that a daughter was born just days prior to the sentencing.

Defense Arguments

Markaryan's defense attorney argued in court that the blogger's actions stemmed from "boastfulness" rather than malicious intent. The defense presented evidence of Markaryan's past charitable work, including assistance to veterans, war participants, children with disabilities, and orphans. Letters of gratitude from various foundations were submitted as part of the case materials.

Investigative Findings

According to the investigation, Markaryan was accused of calling for drone attacks on Russia and insulting the memory of defenders of the Fatherland in early last year. This led to the initiation of a criminal case against him.

Markaryan was apprehended in Kubinka, near Moscow, while en route to Belarus. Investigators claim he attempted to flee the country and was found hidden in a car's luggage compartment to evade law enforcement.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.