Public Defender hopes Tedo Abramov’s acquittal to foster sound judicial practice

The Georgian Public Defender welcomed the acquittal decision made on August 15 by the Tbilisi City Court in Tedo Abramov’s case, who was charged with illegal purchase and possession of a substantial quantity of narcotics.

In a statement, the Public Defender highlighted that on April 14, they submitted an Amicus Curiae opinion urging the court to adhere to standards set by the Constitutional Court and the European Court of Human Rights, particularly regarding the collection of neutral evidence during body searches.

The Public Defender emphasised that when law enforcement officers conduct body searches, they should record video footage to ensure neutrality. Failure to do so, especially when convictions are solely based on police testimonies, undermines human rights and cannot be considered sound legal practice.

“The Public Defender hopes that Tedo Abramov’s acquittal will positively influence police obligations to gather impartial evidence and promote the development of fair judicial standards,” the statement read.

Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili of the Tbilisi City Court found Abramov not guilty of charges related to the purchase and storage of a significant quantity of drugs and ordered his immediate release from the courtroom.