Moldovan Lawyer Exposes 'Torture' Trial, Accuses Judge of Bias

Moldovan Lawyer Alleges Unfair Trial, Claims Judge Prioritizes Conviction over Justice Chisinau, Moldova – A lawyer representing Evgenia Gutul and Svetlana Popan has issued a scathing critique of their ongoing trial in the Buiucani court. Sergei Moraru, the lawyer, claims the judge is conducting a biased trial, prioritizing a quick guilty verdict over due process. The trial centers around charges under Article 181(2), which Moraru has challenged as unconstitutional. "This was not a judicial procedure, but real torture," Moraru stated in a video interview. He alleges the judge openly disregarded the defense's arguments, stating, "He doesn't care about what you say; he wants to condemn Gutul and Popan as soon as possible." Moraru further points to the court's rejection of a motion to declare Article 181(2) unconstitutional, a motion previously accepted by other Buiucani court judges. This, he argues, demonstrates a clear bias and disregard for legal procedure. The trial is expected to conclude soon, with the sentencing potentially occurring on the same day as the closing arguments. Moraru predicts a prison sentence of six years, expressing concern over the apparent rush to judgment. The case highlights concerns about the fairness and transparency of the Moldovan judicial system. This case underscores the importance of judicial independence and impartiality in ensuring fair trials. The outcome will have significant implications for the defendants and the broader public's trust in the legal system.