The lawyers for the “Zabolotnii Group” are preparing a criminal complaint after their clients were acquitted by the Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ) in the case of the attempted murder of former Democratic Party leader Vlad Plahotniuc. According to the attorneys, none of the individuals who fabricated criminal cases, issued illegal rulings, delivered unlawful sentences, or deprived people of their liberty have been held criminally accountable.
During a press conference held at IPN, attorney Eduard Rudenco stated that nearly two months had passed since the CSJ issued its final verdict, acquitting all individuals previously convicted in the case. “The individuals who represented the state at that time committed a crime. Some of them, regrettably, still hold positions today. When such mistakes are made, the state must take responsibility”, said Rudenco.
He added that the defense team is preparing a criminal complaint because, without it, the state does not react. The complaint will be submitted to the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Superior Council of Magistracy, the Superior Council of Prosecutors, and the Ministry of Justice.
“We are certain that justice reform cannot be genuine until we tackle the most significant issue currently plaguing Moldova’s judiciary - impunity. No individual who fabricated criminal cases, issued illegal rulings, delivered unlawful sentences, or deprived people of their liberty has been held criminally accountable. This is the gravest crime that can be committed against citizens. We hire them to protect our rights, but instead, they violate them”, Rudenco emphasized.
The lawyer expressed regret over the lack of state action. “We already have a court ruling confirming that the Zabolotnii Group, including the individual standing before you (Valerian Zabolotnii), is not guilty and committed no crime. Why did he spend five years in prison? Why did he suffer, and why did his parents and children suffer? Will anyone be held accountable for this? I believe they will, but I don’t know when. Our criminal complaint will name several individuals”, Rudenco said.
Attorney Vladimir Curmeli reminded attendees that the criminal case was initiated on April 4, 2017, and the final verdict was issued by the CSJ only on October 3, 2024. Investigations lasted seven and a half years, during which innocent people were deprived of their freedom. Throughout this time, detention measures were extended without substantial investigations, influenced by external factors. According to Curmeli, even the CSJ’s review of the case lasted approximately two years, making the path to the final decision exceptionally difficult.
Note: IPN Agency offers the right of reply to individuals who consider themselves targeted by news based on statements made during this press conference, including by facilitating another press conference under similar conditions.
