Teacher Wrongfully Detained in Russia 2021

[Verano]

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/31/us/f ... index.html

[sciteach]

I may not like the country, but taking even a small amount of drugs into a country like Russia or even Singapore will almost always have a negative response.

[popgirl]

I wouldn't wish a Russian prison on almost anyone, but ..

I find it difficult to believe that an experienced international traveler didn't know better.

[CeeCee1]

He has been released.

[louiseravot]

True — countries like Singapore have very strict drug laws, so even small amounts can lead to serious consequences. When shipping items internationally, especially to places like Singapore, always confirm the correct [URL=https://www.geopostcodes.com/country/si ... stal-code/]Singapore postal codes[/URL] to ensure your package reaches its destination without delay.

[PsyGuy]

He did know better.
In Russia there is a low level possession offense and a much higher possession and distribution offense. He knowingly brought the cannabis into Russia, he thought the low level offense which carries a fine would be imposed not the incarceration level much more serious offense. He was wrong.

[Heliotrope]

CeeCee1 wrote:
> He has been released.

Glad the U.S. government ultimately recognized that he was wrongfully detained, and got him freed in a prisoner swap.
I can't imagine the hardships he had to endure. I'd rather be in a Scandinavian prison for 12 years than be in a Russian prison for 4.