Detained protester suffers physical, verbal abuse at penitentiary facility, lawyer

Lawyer Giorgi Chkheidze has reported that his client Anton Chechin, who was arrested during recent protests, was subjected to both verbal and physical abuse by staff at the penitentiary facility where he is being held. According to Chkheidze, the incident has already been reported to the Public Defender’s Office and the Special Investigation Service.

“Today, political prisoner Anton Chechin was reportedly subjected to verbal and physical abuse by prison staff,” Chkheidze wrote on social media. “We have promptly informed the Public Defender’s Office and the Special Investigation Service about the incident. A representative from the Public Defender’s Office has visited Anton and confirmed the injuries during a phone conversation. We will ensure an appropriate response on our part, and Anton is currently feeling normal. We will continue to keep the public informed about any developments.”

Anton Chechin’s family has also stated that he has a brain tumor, raising additional concerns about his well-being in custody.