The case of Sokolov in Zeya

Case History

In December 2022, the FSB opened a second criminal case against Yevgeniy Sokolov in Zeya for his religion. The first case was initiated two years earlier in Voronezh. Then the believer's home was searched, and he spent almost 5 months in a pre-trial detention center. In Zeya, he was banned from certain actions. Sokolov was accused of participating in Jehovah's Witnesses services, where believers discussed Bible teachings with friends. As it turned out, the woman, who pretended to be interested in the Bible, at the direction of an FSB officer, made hidden audio-video recordings of worship services.
Timeline

  • #
    September 1, 2023

    The investigator of the FSB of Russia in the Amur Region, M. N. Isaev, decides to conduct an outpatient psychiatric forensic examination of Yevgeny Sokolov.
    Within its framework, experts must determine, among other things, whether the suspect needs to be subjected to compulsory medical measures.

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    September 22, 2023 Case initiated Interrogation Art. 282.2 (1)

    Yevgeny Sokolov learns that on December 15, 2022, a second criminal case was opened against him - in the city of Zeya, Amur Region. He is again charged under Part 1 of Article 282.2 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation - he is charged with "preparing and conducting religious meetings."

    Investigator of the FSB of Russia in the Voronezh region I. O. Chekurov acquaints Sokolov and his lawyer with the decision on the appointment of an outpatient psychiatric forensic examination. After that, Chekurov interrogates Yevgeny.