News

Will Brittney Griner go to Russian jail for drug-smuggling?

American basketball player Brittney Griner was found guilty of intentionally smuggling illegal drugs into Russia 

The judge Anna Sotnikova of the Khimki city court handed down the verdict and was fined Griner one million rubles which is roughly $16,400. 

The judge was aware of Griner's part-hearted admitting guilt, remorse for her actions, the health condition and charitable work. 

Before the verdict, Griner apologized to the judge and requested leniency in an emotional address. 

"I never meant to hurt anybody, I never meant to put in jeopardy the Russian population, I never meant to break any laws here," Griner told reporters.

"I committed a mistake that was honest and I'm hoping you will make a decision that does not end my life here. 

"I want to say again that I had no intent on breaking any Russian laws. I had no intent. I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime," she continued. 

After her sentence, Griner spoke to a CNN producer when she left the courtroom "I love my family."