Giorgi Sibashvili Is Against Jury Court

Mikheil Mamalashvili, Kakheti

On March 28, Telavi district court held preliminary hearing of Giorgi Sibashvili’s case, former Kakheti regional deputy governor. Judge Labaza Duishvili did not satisfy solicitation of the accused on dropping criminal prosecution against him and concluded there was not relevant ground of it at this stage. The judge stated that evidence provided by the prosecutor’s side gave enough ground to suspect that Giorgi Sibashvili had really committed illicit actions.

The accused refused to allow the jury court to discuss his case.

“I believe the institute of court jury is a innovation for our country and I prefer my case was discussed by professional judge who has taken qualification exams. In this way, they will sooner discuss my case and prove my innocence,” Giorgi Sibashvili said after the trial.

Investigative unit blames Sibashvili in the abuse of professional authority, misappropriation and waste of state property that is punishable by imprisonment up to 11 years. 15 000 lari bail was imposed on him as preventive measure.

Next trial on Giorgi Sibashvili’s case is scheduled on April 10.