Amnesty for Article 228: Main Proposals

On November 5, 2019, a petition was prepared proposing several measures to ease penalties under Articles 228 and 228.1 of the Russian Criminal Code. These articles relate to drug-related offenses. The main points of the petition are as follows:

• Reduction of sentences for offenses under Articles 228 and 228.1.
• Introduction of a note to these articles stating that if the crime is committed for the first time, the sentence cannot exceed one-third of the maximum penalty.
• Implementing the practice of replacing real imprisonment with suspended sentences or other preventive measures for first-time offenders under Articles 228 and 228.1.
• Charging individuals involved in “stash” cases under Article 228, not Article 228.1, as specified in the Criminal Code, where Article 228 specifically covers “acquisition, possession, and transportation.”
• Reviewing the Supreme Court’s ruling that currently equates almost any action with drug distribution.
• Conducting a large-scale amnesty for all those convicted or currently under investigation under Articles 228 and 228.1.

These proposals aim to reform the approach to drug-related offenses, focusing on reducing sentences, providing alternatives to imprisonment for first-time offenders, and ensuring fairer legal practices.