The trial of the murder of S. Markelov and A. Baburova has begun

On February 21, 2011, the Moscow City Court began consideration of the merits of the case of the murder of lawyer Stanislav Markelov and journalist Anastasia Baburova.

Let us remind you that there are two ultra-rightists in the dock: Nikita Tikhonov and Evgenia Khasis, who are accused under paragraphs. "a, g, k, l" part 2 tbsp. 105 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (murder of two persons motivated by hatred), Part 3 of Art. 222 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation and Part 2 of Art. 222 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (illegal acquisition and storage of weapons). In addition, N. Tikhonov is charged with Part 3 of Art. 327 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (forgery of documents).

The case is tried by a jury. Previously, seven jurors recused themselves, one refused, citing the fact that his “convictions would interfere” with making an informed decision.

At the last meeting, N. Tikhonov admitted his guilt in storing and selling weapons, as well as using forged documents. However, he denies any involvement in the murder.

On February 22, 2011, the prosecution witness and eyewitness to the murder A. Murashkin identified the defendant N. Tikhonov as the man whom he saw with a pistol in his hand at the scene of the murder on Prechistinka Street on January 19, 2009. The second time he saw the defendant was in November 2009 at an identification parade. The interrogation was conducted via audio link: the witness stated that he feared threats and physical harm.

On March 1, 2011, witness Larisa Ermakova identified N. Tikhonov as the man whom she saw on January 19, 2009 on Prechistenka, running past with a pistol.

Sources

• Reports from court hearings:
• Bashinova Yu. Key indications // Grani.ru. 2011. February 22.
• Bashinova Y. The trial of the murder of Stas and Nastya. Day one // Grani.ru. 2011. February 16.
• The court will begin to consider the case of the murder of Markelov and Baburova // NEWSru.com. 2011. February 21.
• The second witness identified Tikhonov as the killer of Stanislav Markelov // Human Rights in Russia. 2011. March 1.