20:07, 6 June 2014

In Sochi, court dismisses UVD's claim to rights defender Shikarev

On Friday, June 6, the Khosta District Court of Sochi, chaired by V. Sidorov, rejected the claim lodged by the head of the Sochi UVD (Interior Department) on protection of his honour, dignity and business reputation against the rights defender Roman Shikarev.

"The court's motivated decision will be ready within five days," said the press service of the above court.

The trial of the lawsuit began on April 25; and the respondent refused to recognize it.

"I was sure that the court would rule against me and satisfy the claim of the police, since in most cases they behave like this, when state officials sue ordinary citizens; however, here the judge has ruled fairly and legally in favour of freedom of expression and opinion. This is very commendable," said Roman Shikarev.

See earlier reports: "Sochi activists state the need to publicly discuss policemen's action during Olympics", "Sochi: David Khakim released from special detention facility", "Ecologists: Sochi court's decisions in administrative cases against Olga Noskovets and David Khakim are politically motivated".

Author: Svetlana Kravchenko

Source: CK correspondent