$15K Extortion Scheme Targeting Judge: Court in Zhytomyr Region Hands Down Prison Sentences

Korosten City District Court of Zhytomyr Region has found a man and a woman guilty of extorting money from a judge, sentencing them to lengthy prison terms.

The case involves a judge of the Solomianskyi District Court of Kyiv, Halyna Kozlenko, who reported the extortion attempt to law enforcement in 2024.

According to the investigation, the main आरोपी — an acquaintance of the judge — had previously assisted her in evacuating her daughter abroad following a serious car accident. Later, after returning a lost folder of documents (which he had copied), the man began demanding money, claiming she owed him for his “help.”

He involved an accomplice who posed as a representative of a “state service” assisting refugees. Together, they pressured the judge with threats of complaints to the High Qualification Commission of Judges of Ukraine, media exposure, and even possible consequences for her daughter living in Germany.

Initially demanding $50,000, the suspect later agreed to $15,000. The money was handed over at a gas station in Zhytomyr region under police supervision, after which the man was detained.

In court, both defendants denied guilt, claiming the money was a legitimate debt. However, the court found the accusations fully proven, emphasizing that the demands were disproportionate and accompanied by psychological pressure and manipulation.

Additionally, the man was convicted of illegal possession of weapons, as an assault rifle and ammunition were discovered in his home.

The court sentenced the man to 9 years in prison and the woman to 7 years.