The court extended the house arrest of an environmental activist who protested against construction with a crossbow on a tree

The Babushkinsky District Court of Moscow extended the house arrest of environmental activist Olga Kuzmina, accused of hooliganism (Part 2 of Article 213 of the Criminal Code), for a month and one day. Her interests are represented by lawyer Katerina Tertukhina, who collaborates with OVD-Info.

A criminal case was opened against Kuzmina due to a protest against construction as part of the renovation at 15 Yantarnaya Street, which the activist considers illegal. On August 9, 2021, she climbed a tree and tied herself to it, taking with her a crossbow that was unsuitable for shooting.

The investigation believes that she did not act alone and “entered into a criminal conspiracy with unidentified persons.” Prosecutors allege she planned to “defend herself” with a “pre-prepared object used as a weapon”—a crossbow.

At the same time, investigators emphasize that it is not a bladed weapon and can be used for sports and recreation. Earlier, lawyer Tatyana Solomina drew attention to this.

On August 17, 2021, Kuzmina was placed under house arrest - the defense repeatedly appealed the preventive measure. The activist was diagnosed with a serious chronic disease. Her mother Lyudmila Kuzmina told OVD-Info that under house arrest the girl cannot follow the recommendations of her doctor - she needs walks and physical therapy. Due to lack of movement, the activist's legs swell and heart problems begin.

On July 5, the Moscow City Court upheld the extension of Olga Kuzmina’s house arrest, reports lawyer from OVD-Info Katerina Tertukhina.