NOVEMBER 15, 2023 | UPDATED: MARCH 13, 2024
RUSSIA
UPDATE—SENTENCE CHANGED | “I Am Determined to Trust Jehovah”
On March 12, 2024, the Kemerovo Regional Court changed Brother Pavel Brilkov’s sentence following an appeal. His original sentence of forced labor was replaced with a suspended prison sentence of two years. He is not required to go to prison at this time.
On January 15, 2024, the Central District Court of Prokopyevsk convicted Brother Pavel Brilkov and sentenced him to two years and ten months of forced labor. a He is not required to go to prison at this time.
Profile
Although we are saddened by the persecution of our dear brothers and sisters, we are determined to “show a waiting attitude for the God of [our] salvation” as we confidently look forward to future blessings.—Micah 7:7.
Time Line
November 10, 2021
Home searched. Pavel and Vera both interrogated
May 30, 2022
Criminal case initiated
March 16, 2023
Placed under travel restrictions
May 25, 2023
Criminal trial began
a A person sentenced to forced labor receives a work assignment from the authorities and has anywhere between 5 to 20 percent of his wages confiscated. If the authorities determine that the person is not cooperating or is refusing to work, he may be sent to prison.
See Also
NEWS RELEASES
Imprisoned for Their Faith—Russia
Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia have been imprisoned for their faith. Learn their history, and get a printable list of any Witnesses currently in prison.