Military psychologist goes on trial in Odesa for bribery

A military psychologist accused of extorting $4,000 for a transfer to the rear will be tried in Odesa. According to the investigation, the woman promised to influence the decision of officials and help the soldier avoid serving on the front line.

This was reported by the press service of the Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office.

The Peresypskyi District Prosecutor's Office of Odesa has sent an indictment to court against a military psychologist suspected of influence peddling. Her actions are classified under Part 3 of Article 369-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

According to the investigation, the accused demanded USD 4,000 from the soldier's friends for assistance in his transfer from the combat zone to a rear unit. It was about processing documents for further service in one of the military units in Odesa or the region without being sent to the front line.

In addition, the woman assured that she would be able to further organize the paperwork for the discharge of the soldier from the Armed Forces of Ukraine and his deregistration. She claimed that she had the necessary connections among officials and was able to influence the decision-making process.

In January of this year, law enforcement officers detained the suspect while she was receiving the second part of the USD 2,500 bribe. She received the money in her own apartment.

Operational support in the criminal proceedings was provided by the SBU Military Counterintelligence Department. The case has now been referred to court for consideration on the merits.

Also in April, in Odesa, a scheme to make money by evading real service was exposed: a reservist promised to "get" a unit without performing duties in exchange for money. The deal for $2,500 resulted in his detention during the transfer of funds and arrest by court order.

Анна Бальчінос