American basketball star jailed in Russia for marijuana
"Griner is a two-time Olympic gold medalist. He is considered one of the best players in the world."
A Russian court has sentenced American basketball star Brittany Griner to 9 years in prison on drug charges. Greener, 31, admitted possessing the cannabis oil, but told the court he did so in 'simple faith'.
But the court could not be satisfied with it. The judge convicted him of smuggling and drug possession and sentenced him to the maximum sentence.
Griner is a two-time Olympic gold medalist. He is considered one of the best players in the world.
He was detained at an airport near Moscow in February. Vape cartridges containing cannabis oil were found in his luggage. He came to Russia to play club basketball in the US off-season.
Within a few days, Russia started military operations in Ukraine. Now the case has become a high-profile diplomatic issue between the United States and Russia.
US President Joe Biden called the verdict "unacceptable".
U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said, "Wrongful detention by Russia or any other country represents a threat to the safety of everyone traveling, working and living abroad."
As Griner was led from the courtroom in handcuffs, she was heard saying, 'I love my family.'
It is unclear how long he will actually spend in prison. Because the US and Russia are discussing a possible prisoner exchange.
Washington may hand over imprisoned Russian arms smuggler Viktor Bout to Russian authorities as part of the deal, according to US media reports. Victor is known as 'Death of Merchant'.
Griner's lawyers said they would appeal the verdict. While reading the verdict, the presiding judge in Khimki said he took into account the fact that the American had already spent enough time in prison.
Earlier, after both sides presented their closing arguments, Griner told the court, "I made an unwitting mistake." I hope your judgment will not end my life. I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime.'
Griner also said he had not received an explanation of his rights. He did not have the assistance of a lawyer during the initial hours of his detention. He had to use a translation app on his phone to communicate.
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