Vinnytsia priest suspected of taking $14,000 to help evade mobilization
In Vinnytsia, law enforcement officers reported suspicions against a UOC priest who was caught receiving 14 thousand US dollars.
According to the investigation, the priest promised to help the conscript avoid mobilization due to alleged connections in the CCC. This was reported by the Vinnytsia Regional Prosecutor's Office.
According to the investigation, in April 2026, the priest suggested to a 26-year-old acquaintance, who was subject to military service, to "resolve the issue" of avoiding the draft.
Law enforcement officials claim that the priest assured the man that he had connections with officials of the Vinnytsia Regional Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support and could influence the adoption of the necessary decision.
In July, when the conscript was undergoing a military medical examination, the suspect reported that the issue had been resolved and asked for payment for his services. According to the investigation, the amount was $14,000.
While transferring money, the clergyman was detained by officers of the SBU Department in Vinnytsia Oblast.
He was informed of suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine: Part 1 of Article 114-1 — obstruction of the lawful activities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations during a special period; Part 3 of Article 369-2 — receiving unlawful benefit for influencing the decisions of persons authorized to perform state functions, combined with the extortion of such benefit.
Sanctions under these articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine provide for imprisonment for a term of 3 to 8 years (with possible confiscation of property) depending on the nature of the crime. The court chose a preventive measure for the suspect - detention with the possibility of posting bail.
We remind you that a scheme with fictitious employment for $25 thousand was exposed in Transcarpathia.
