Brittney Griner Pleads Guilty in Russian Court
Brittney Griner has pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Russian court, CNN reports. The WNBA star told the judge, “I’d like to plead guilty, your honor, but there was no intent. I didn’t want to break the law.”
“I’d like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare,” she added.
Over the July 4th weekend, the Phoenix Mercury star made a plea to President Biden for her release. “As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” wrote Griner, per CBS.
Adrienne Watson, the spokeswoman for the National Security Council wrote in a statement Monday (July 4) that they are doing their part and utilizing their best efforts to bring the WNBA star home, “We believe the Russian Federation is wrongfully detaining Brittney Griner. President Biden has been clear about the need to see all U.S. nationals who are held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad released, including Brittney Griner. The U.S. government continues to work aggressively – using every available means — to bring her home. The President’s team is in regular contact with Brittney’s family and we will continue to work to support her family.”
Griner has been detained in Russia since February after Russian officials found vape cartridges containing oil derived from cannabis in her luggage at the Sheremetyevo airport near Moscow.
The next hearing is set for July 14th. Griner faces up to 10 years in prison.
