Pro-Russian activist sentenced in Vilnius for inciting hatred against Belarusians and Jews
A court in Vilnius has found local pro-Russian activist Laurynas Ragelskis guilty of inciting hatred against Jews and Belarusians, as well as desecrating a place of public commemoration. He was sentenced to one year and nine months of restricted freedom without intensive supervision, and a fine of 12,500 euros, LRT reports .
Laurynas Ragelskis. Screenshot from his YouTube channel
In addition, the court obliged Laurynas Ragelskis to undergo a behavioral correction program, work or register with the employment service, and perform 100 hours of free work in healthcare and social service institutions that care for the elderly and people with disabilities.
For the duration of his restricted freedom, he is prohibited from using social networks and internet platforms, creating and distributing any content, conducting broadcasts, commenting on materials, creating new websites and accounts, and using other people's accounts. However, he is allowed to use electronic government services and online banking.
After the verdict comes into force, the probation service will monitor the fulfillment of the imposed obligations. The use of IT specialists for control is possible.
The case has been under consideration since 2022 and has been repeatedly postponed. A total of 67 court hearings took place. The accused did not appear in court. In his closing statement, he did not admit guilt.
According to the indictment, Ragelskis filmed and distributed videos in which he publicly insulted and ridiculed various groups of people based on nationality, political views, and beliefs. The case materials note that he also desecrated an improvised memorial in memory of those who died during the events in Belarus, by filming and uploading a corresponding video.
The imposed sentence partially coincides with the prosecutor's earlier proposals, who also requested restricted freedom, a fine, and additional obligations.
The Lithuanian State Security Department characterizes Ragelskis as a "political marginal" who actively cooperates with Belarusian propagandists and curates anti-Western and pro-Russian resources in the Lithuanian language.
The criminal case against Ragelskis was submitted to court back in 2022, but the process dragged on for years. The pro-Russian activist, who is fluent in Lithuanian, demonstratively demanded a Russian translator and translation of all case materials. He changed lawyers six times, tried to challenge the judge, and flooded the court with petitions.
Laurynas Ragelskis has occasionally appeared in Belarusian state media since 2020, during which he spoke offensively about Lukashenka's opponents.
Ragelskis attempted to destroy the memorial near the Belarusian embassy in Vilnius in October 2020. A case was initiated against him for "inciting hostility" and "desecrating a memorial site."
Comments