Mr. K. was suspected of an offense under Art. 228.1(3)(b) of the Russian Criminal Code — illegal distribution of narcotics on a significant scale. The sanction: 8 to 15 years of imprisonment.
What defense counsel did
Attorney Sergey Spirin carefully analyzed and detailed the suspect's testimony, reconstructed the chronology of events, identified new facts and eyewitnesses. Thanks to their testimony, the statements of prosecution witnesses were refuted.
The difference between distribution and possession is the difference between 8–15 years and actual release. The evidentiary base decides everything.
Result
- The client's actions were reclassified to Art. 228(1) (drug possession).
- Mr. K. was released in the courtroom.
- Time spent in custody was credited against the sentence.
- He was released from further serving of the sentence.