Andrei Zhuk: pardon appeal rejected

The Board for Criminal Cases of the Supreme Court has turned down the appeal for pardon by Andrei Zhuk, sentenced to death for alleged murder of six persons. During the court session, the convict's legal advisors presented a number of evidence, stating the severe sentence could be reduced. They also spoke in favour of the abolition of the death penalty. In his last word, Mr. Zhuk admitted his guilt, but asked to reduce the verdict.