Expert psychologist Volha Vialichka sentenced in absentia to 9 years’ imprisonment
On August 2, Hrodna Regional Court handed down a sentence to Volha Vialichka, an expert in the field of psychology and former director of the Children's Hospice in Hrodna. Judge Dzmitry Bubenchyk found her guilty of multiple criminal offences and sentenced her to nine years’ imprisonment and a fine of 12,000 rubles.
- Volha Vialichka
The case has been under review since July. Volha was charged under seven articles of the Criminal Code:
- Part 1 of Article 342 (organizing and preparing actions that grossly violate public order, or actively participating in them);
- Part 2 of Article 367 (slander against Lukashenka);
- Part 3 of Article 210 (embezzlement by misuse of official position);
- Part 3 of Article 203-1 (unlawful acts concerning information on private life and personal data);
- Part 2 of Article 361-4 (promotion of extremist activities);
- Part 1 of Article 130 (incitement to other social discord or enmity).
- Article 193-1 (illegal organization of activities of a public association, religious organization or foundation, or participation in their activities (the article is excluded as of July 19, 2019)).
On March 5, the Investigative Committee initiated a special proceeding against Volha Vialichka.
The Hrodna Children's Hospice, which she previously managed, was dissolved by the Hrodna authorities. Since December 2020, Volha has been residing abroad, where she continues to develop palliative care for children and adults.
Recently, Velichka published a book entitled "From Two to Fifteen. My Mother Is in Prison", which provides insights into the world through the eyes of the children of political prisoners.
