Additional Name(s): Nataliya Igorevna Sorokina, Сорокина Наталия Игоревна

Gender: Female

Perpetrator: Russia

Religion or Belief: Christian – Jehovah's Witness

Health Concerns: Asthma

Reports of Torture: No

Reports of Medical Neglect: No

Appeal: Rejected

Date of Detainment: October/7/2018

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: No

Most Recent Type of Abuse: House Arrest

Reason for Persecution: Religious Activity Religious Belief

Nature of Charges: Banned Organization Extremism

Nataliya Sorokina

Extra Bio Info:

Nataliya Sorokina was imprisoned for her religious belief and activity. 

On October 7, 2018, authorities arrested Sorokina and charged her with “participating in the activities of a public or religious association, or any other organization in respect of which a court has adopted a final decision to liquidate or ban activities in connection with extremist activities” (Art. 282.2-2 RCC).

On April 15, 2019, Sorokina was released and placed under house arrest.

In the summer of 2019, Sorokina's original charge reclassified. She was then charged with “organizing the activities of a public or religious association or other organization in respect of which a court has adopted a final decision to liquidate or ban activities in connection with extremist activities” (Art. 282.2-1 RCC).

In the fall of 2019, Sorokina's house arrest order was reportedly lifted, and she was placed on recognizance. 

On April 22, 2021, the Sychevka District Court sentenced Sorokina to six years of suspended imprisonment and three years of probation. During the trial, prosecutors reportedly introduced audio recordings of Sorokina discussing religious themes and texts as evidence.

On September 15, 2021, Sorokina's appeal was rejected.

Sorokina reportedly suffered from health issues while detained.

Related Cases: Mariya Troshina

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