Artem Skakalin

A janitor from Tambov. On June 27th 2022, he was detained by FSB officers near the Russian-Ukrainian border in Bryansk region. He was arrested under the administrative article for disobeying a lawful order or demand of a serviceman in connection with the performance of duties to guard the State Border of the Russian Federation (Article 18.7 of the Code of Administrative Offences). On July 4th, Skakalin was taken into custody on charges of preparing to participate in an illegal armed formation: according to the investigation, he intended to join the "Freedom of Russia" Legion. On 20th of October 2022, Skakalin was sentenced to seven years in a strict regime colony. On July 12th 2023, the court of cassation instance cancelled the verdict and sent the case for a new consideration. On 15th of August 2023, the court of first instance again sentenced Skakalin to seven years in a strict regime colony, only the term of imprisonment was changed - two years instead of one and a half. On March 20th 2024, the court of appeal overturned this sentence. On April 22nd 2024, the court of first instance again sentenced Skakalin to seven years in a strict regime colony with the same prison term as the second time.