Trial of Rostov journalist Alexander Tolmachov rescheduled for October 16

The hearing of the criminal case against Alexander Tolmachov, a Rostov journalist and publisher, has been postponed till October 16, as Maria Polyanichko, a civil activist and the organizer of actions in support of the journalist, has announced today. According to her story, at the session on September 23, the petition lodged by Tolmachov's advocates to change his freedom restriction measure from arrest to recognizance not to leave was dismissed.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that Alexander Tolmachov, a journalist, publisher, and candidate for the Regional Legislative Assembly, is charged with four extortion episodes. His custody has been extended several times, starting from December 2011.

The last so far court session on his case held on September 23 began with the above petition of Tolmachov's advocates to change his freedom restriction measure, Maria Polyanichko, who was present in the courtroom, told the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent.

She added that Tolmachov also asked to study the materials of the case. The judge granted the motion; and now the journalist is brought to the court every day, where he studies the case files.

Earlier Maria reported about Tolmachov's health problems.