Why is a squirrel killer making headlines

What is that?

19-year old Yelisei Vladimirov was sentenced to one year in prison for killing a squirrel in a city park in St. Petersburg, Russia.

What was he convicted of? squirrel killing?

Yes, animal cruelty.

Is he in jail for killing a squirrel now?

No, he has been spared because of a widespread amnesty in honor of the Allied victory in World War II.

Please explain!

Russia celebrated Victory Day, an anniversary marking 70 years since the victory over Nazi Germany. Vladimirov thus became one of about 150,000 inmates or defendants who have been released from prison or granted amnesty in honor of the anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe.

But why on earth did he shoot a squirrel?

The defendant and his friends said they were feeding the animal when it bit Vladimirov and was about to ‘attack’ him.

What about witnesses?

They were there but they testified otherwise, saying that the teenager shouted "Beast!" and shot the squirrel.

Was there an actual court hearing for the ‘murder’ case?

Yes, with judges, prosecutors and defendants.

So if not for victory day, vladimirov would have been up the river…

Exactly, he must thank president Vladimir Putin for approving the amnesty bill.

Were all kinds of convicts released?

No, the amnesty only covers first-time offenders as well as those convicted of petty crimes with prison sentences of up to five years. It is not applicable to anyone convicted of premeditated murder, terrorism, racketeering or other serious crimes.

Jeez! The kid should thank his forefathers of 1945 for winning the war…

Yes, it paid off for him after 70 years.