Russia sentences Meta official to six years in prison for 'publicly advocating terrorism'



In the wake of

Russia's invasion of Ukraine , a Moscow military court sentenced Meta spokesman Andy Stone to six years in prison for criticizing the platform for allowing violent anti-Russian rhetoric. Stone was not in Russia and the trial was in absentia.

The most important project of the project Meta* - IA Novosti, 22.04.2024
https://ria.ru/20240422/meta-1941524481.html



Russia Sentences Meta Spokesman to Jail in Absentia for 'Terrorism' - The Moscow Times

https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/04/22/russia-sentences-meta-spokesman-to-jail-in-absentia-for-terrorism-a84925

Russia finds Meta guilty of 'extremist activity' but WhatsApp can stay | Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/technology/meta-asks-russian-court-dismiss-proceedings-extremism-case-reports-2022-03-21/

In 2022, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, Meta's policies were temporarily changed to allow violent political rhetoric against Russian soldiers, such as 'Death to Russian invaders,' which would normally be considered a violation.

In response, Russia designated Facebook and Instagram, both owned by Meta, as 'extremist platforms.' In addition to restricting access to Facebook from within the country immediately after the invasion, Russia also restricted access to Instagram.

Russian government to designate Facebook's Meta as an 'extremist group' and restrict Instagram - GIGAZINE



Stone, who introduced Meta's policy change and gave an interview, was the subject of an investigation by Russian authorities and was placed on an international wanted list in February 2023. However, Russian authorities were unable to secure custody of Stone, who was not active in Russia, and a trial in absentia was held on February 22, 2024 local time.

The prosecution charged Stone with publicly advocating terrorism and publicly calling for terrorist activities, and sought a seven-year prison sentence. The defense argued that Stone had no intention of justifying terrorism and was merely expressing his opinion on Meta's policies. However, the Second Western District Military Court sentenced Stone to six years in prison.

According to Reuters, Stone's lawyers are appealing the most recent sentence.



in Web Service, Posted by log1p_kr