A U.S. soldier has been sentenced to nearly four years in a Russian penal colony for stealing $113 from his girlfriend and making threats to kill her, as reported by a Reuters witness from the courtroom in Vladivostok, Russia.
The soldier, Gordon Black, a 34-year-old U.S. staff sergeant, was involved in a tumultuous love affair with a Russian woman, Alexandra Vashchuk, that began in South Korea and ended in Vladivostok.
Black was found guilty by Judge Yelena Stepankova of stealing money from Vashchuk’s purse and threatening her life during a quarrel in an apartment in Vladivostok. The court stated that Black committed theft and made threats during the altercation.
Despite pleading not guilty to the threats, Black admitted to taking the money out of necessity. He has been sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony and ordered to repay the stolen amount.
The incident occurred after Black traveled to Russia from South Korea, where he was stationed, to meet Vashchuk. Prosecutors claimed that during an argument, Black grabbed Vashchuk by the neck and took the money, while Black argued that Vashchuk had been aggressive and intoxicated.
Black’s defense lawyer plans to appeal the verdict, as prosecutors had requested a longer prison sentence while the defense sought acquittal.
Notably, Vashchuk did not attend the court hearing. Prior to their dispute, she had referred to Black as her “husband” on social media.
Black, who has a wife and child in Texas, had traveled to Russia without authorization from the army. His family members acknowledged the turbulent nature of his relationship with Vashchuk.
The case has drawn attention from both U.S. President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with discussions about a possible swap involving another American detainee in Russia.
The situation underscores the complexities of international relationships and legal proceedings, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals involved in cross-border disputes.
($1 = 85.2455 roubles)
Can you please rewrite this sentence?
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