Opposition activist gets three-years restricted freedom sentence for alleged public disorder

May 17, BPN. Judge Žana Chvajnickaja of the Zavadzski District Court in Minsk on May 13 sentenced Kaciaryna Nikicienka, 35, to three years of restricted freedom without referral to an open-type correctional facility, the Viasna Human Rights Center reported. The judge found Nikicienka guilty of training persons to participate in group activities grossly violating public order and financing such activities.

People sentenced to restricted freedom without referral to an open-type correctional facility are confined to their residence during non-working hours and are required to retain or seek employment. Law enforcement officers can visit their home or place of employment anytime to make sure they comply with the terms of confinement.

Nikicienka was arrested in late November in Minsk and was held at Detention Center No. 1 on Valadarskaha Street in Minsk pending trial. Human rights defenders declared her a political prisoner.