In a shocking case in Zakarpattia Oblast, three Ukrainian teenagers were convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl in 2021. The boys filmed the assault and posted the video online, leading to a sentence of only two years of probation and a fine. Outraged by this lenient punishment, several lawyers took on the girl’s case pro bono to fight for a stricter verdict.
As the trial reached its final stage, the defense unexpectedly filed a motion to close the case, claiming the victim’s absence at some court sessions as a reason. However, the victim’s representatives had previously requested her limited participation to avoid re-traumatization.
The defense’s tactics were condemned by attorney Illia Vorobyov, who insisted on proper punishment for the accused. The court had labeled the crime as sexual violence rather than rape, resulting in a lighter sentence. Nevertheless, Vorobyov remained steadfast in seeking imprisonment for the perpetrators.
With hopes of a just outcome, the court debates are anticipated by the end of October, leaving the final decision in the judge’s hands. The pursuit of justice for the victim continues as the legal battle unfolds.
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