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Brittney Griner was convicted of smuggling cocaine into Russia and sentenced to nine years in jail Thursday. Her story has aroused suspicions she is being used as a political pawn in Russia's conflict against Ukraine.
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Khimki City Court Judge Anna Sotnikova fined Griner $16,400. She stated the court considered Griner's partial confession, regret, health, and humanitarian work. Prosecutors sought for a 9.5-year sentence.
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Griner apologised and begged for leniency before the verdict.Griner: "I never wanted to damage anyone, put the Russian populace in danger, or break any laws here.
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I made a mistake and hope your judgement doesn't end my life. Everyone talks about political pawns, but I hope that's not in this courtroom.
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I never intended to contravene Russian law. No intent. She continued, "I didn't conspire or plan this crime."As she exited court, Griner said, "I love my family."
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Six months ago, the 31-year-old was arrested at a Moscow airport and charged of smuggling cannabis oil. The two-time US Olympic basketball gold medalist pled guilty to drug charges last month.
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Griner's lawyers claimed they'll appeal and slammed the court for ignoring their evidence. 10-day appeal period.
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The court hearing began Thursday after Griner was led into the defendant's cage in handcuffs. Once uncuffed, she chatted with her legal team and held out a photo of her Russian offseason team, UMMC Ekaterinburg.
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Griner said she was forced to sign documents she didn't understand at the airport. She initially used Google translate on her phone, but was then transported to another room and told to sign more forms.