Russian ex-official faces 10 years in prison for 700M ruble embezzlement
Viktor Velikodny, the ex-head of the Russian Emergencies Ministry's 36th Special Directorate in Biysk, is awaiting a verdict in a high-profile embezzlement case. The Biysk City Court will announce its decision on March 30, 2026, after a trial lasting over 18 months. He and eight former colleagues stand accused of stealing nearly 700 million rubles in public funds.
The case centres on charges of large-scale embezzlement and misappropriation, with Velikodny and his co-defendants facing two key allegations: direct theft and complicity in the crimes. If convicted, he could receive up to 10 years in prison. The trial began in late 2024, with the judge retiring to consider the verdict on March 10, 2026.
Russian authorities initially linked Velikodny and his associates to a far larger sum—around 550 billion rubles (approximately $6 billion USD)—though the current charges focus on 700 million rubles. His former wife, Tatyana Velikodnaya, was also charged but avoided punishment after the statute of limitations expired. However, the Tax Service has since pursued her for 171 million rubles in unpaid claims.
Eight other employees from Velikodny's former agency remain co-defendants in the case. All now await sentencing alongside their former boss after a lengthy legal process.
The court's ruling on March 30 will determine Velikodny's fate, with a possible decade-long prison term if found guilty. The outcome will also resolve the legal status of his eight co-defendants. Meanwhile, tax authorities continue to pursue financial claims against his former wife.
