The Security Service of Ukraine, in cooperation with the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, has uncovered another corruption scheme within the judicial system.

During a joint operation in Bukovyna, the law enforcement detained a judge seconded to a local court on suspicion of soliciting a bribe through a lawyer.

According to the investigation, the suspect pressured the lawyer to transfer USD 30,000 to a judge in Kyiv. In return, the Kyiv-based judge was expected to secure an acquittal for an individual accused of a criminal offence related to abuse of office.

Based on the evidence collected, the judge from Chernivtsi region has been formally notified of suspicion under Articles 27.4 and 369.3 of the CCU (incitement to offer, promise, or provide an unlawful benefit to a public official).

The pre-trial investigation is ongoing to establish all the circumstances of the crime and identify all those involved.

If convicted, the suspect faces up to 8 years in prison and the confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out under the procedural supervision of the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.