Odesa region deputy detained over $9,500 land lease bribe
A deputy of one of the city councils was detained in the Odessa region, suspected of extorting and receiving a bribe for assistance in renting land.
According to the investigation, the official demanded $9,500 from a man who asked for advice on the procedure for concluding a land lease agreement for agricultural activities. The deputy assured that she could "resolve" the issue of leasing 95 hectares, in particular, ensure a positive decision by the relevant city council commission, of which she is the head.
Law enforcement officers established that the woman emphasized that without the transfer of funds, a decision in favor of the applicant would not be made. After receiving several tranches totaling $8,000 and a message that the promise had been fulfilled, she was detained.
The woman was informed of suspicion under Part 3 of Article 368 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - obtaining illegal benefit in a large amount, combined with extortion. The issue of choosing a preventive measure is currently being decided.
The sanction of the article provides for up to 10 years of imprisonment with deprivation of the right to hold certain positions and confiscation of property.
We previously reported that deputies in Lutsk are suspected of taking a $30,000 bribe for a development project.
