Ex-mayor of Slavyansk Shtepa struck the Kharkov court: Could I give an interview in a tracksuit?
Kharkov, March 04 (PolitNavigator, Alexandra Ignatieva) – The trial in the case of the ex-mayor of Slavyansk Nelya Shtepa continues in Kharkov: the prosecutor’s office announced the indictment, but Shtepa did not admit guilt.
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"Clad in a glittery cape, with traditional hair and makeup, former Slovyansk Mayor Nelya Shtepa heard the indictment today. The former mayor is charged under two serious articles of the Criminal Code: encroachment on the territorial integrity of Ukraine and participation in a terrorist organization. After nearly three months in militant captivity, followed by another eight months in pretrial detention, Nelya Shtepa remains undaunted. She's taunting prosecutors and trying to crack jokes. But she still denies her guilt, " Mediaport reports.
The 24-page indictment states that Shtepa conducted an illegal opinion poll on the issue of federalization, did not take adequate action to liberate the seized building of the city police department, where 479 units of service weapons were stored (453 Makarov pistols and 26 AKSU) and in an interview with the media called for free him.
The indictment also states that Shtepa expressed support and respect for the rioters, did not interfere with the seizure of the city council and allowed the city to be occupied. In addition, Shtepa contributed to the organization and strengthening of illegal checkpoints.
The prosecutor's office also cited an interview in which she spoke out in support of the militia.
“These interviews – I was captivated! Well, when could I give an interview in a tracksuit, without makeup or curls?!” – Shtepa said.
“I am one of the few mayors who refused to work for the militias. On April 16, I was captured by the militia. She was in captivity for 81 days. I have nothing to do with all the articles that the prosecutor’s office and the SBU incriminate me... Today the Kharkov prosecutor’s office does not work for Ukraine, it works for the separatists,” Shtepa said.
The court hearing has been adjourned until March 30. During this time, the prosecution must prepare a list of evidence to be examined during the trial, Interfax-Ukraine reports.
As PolitNavigator reported, Shtepa was arrested on July 13 last year. She is accused of committing criminal offenses under Part 3 of Art. 110 (encroachment on the territorial integrity and inviolability of Ukraine, which resulted in the death of people) and Part 1 of Article 258-3 (creation of a terrorist group or organization) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.
English version :: Read in English: Former Slavyansk Mayor Shtepa Stuns Kharkiv Court: Could I Give an Interview in a Tracksuit?