Activist Nino Datashvili, arrested on charges of assaulting a bailiff, remains in custody following a decision by Tbilisi City Court Judge Lela Kalichenko.
At today’s trial, the court reviewed the admissibility of evidence and the pre-trial detention measure, which was upheld.
The prosecutor argued that detention should continue due to risks of absconding, witness tampering, and committing new crimes.
The defense opposed the motion, requesting Datashvili’s release. Lawyers and human rights activists stated there was no risk of absconding or interference, noting that Datashvili was arrested nearly 10 days after the indictment without any attempt to flee.
Judge Kalichenko sided with the prosecution.
Datashvili was arrested on June 20 for an incident on June 9 and charged under Part 3 of Article 353 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which punishes assault on a public servant with a fine or 4 to 7 years imprisonment.
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