Brittney Griner Pleads Guilty in Russian Court
Brittney Griner has pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Russian court, CNN reports. The WNBA star told the judge, “I’d like to plead guilty, your honor, but there was no…
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – OCTOBER 06: Brittney Griner #42 of the Phoenix Mercury during the first half in Game Four of the 2021 WNBA semifinals at Footprint Center on October 06, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)Brittney Griner has pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Russian court, CNN reports. The WNBA star told the judge, "I'd like to plead guilty, your honor, but there was no intent. I didn't want to break the law."
"I'd like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare," she added.
Over the July 4th weekend, the Phoenix Mercury star made a plea to President Biden for her release. "As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I'm terrified I might be here forever," wrote Griner, per CBS.
Adrienne Watson, the spokeswoman for the National Security Council wrote in a statement Monday (July 4) that they are doing their part and utilizing their best efforts to bring the WNBA star home, "We believe the Russian Federation is wrongfully detaining Brittney Griner. President Biden has been clear about the need to see all U.S. nationals who are held hostage or wrongfully detained abroad released, including Brittney Griner. The U.S. government continues to work aggressively – using every available means — to bring her home. The President's team is in regular contact with Brittney's family and we will continue to work to support her family."
Griner has been detained in Russia since February after Russian officials found vape cartridges containing oil derived from cannabis in her luggage at the Sheremetyevo airport near Moscow.
The next hearing is set for July 14th. Griner faces up to 10 years in prison.
Brittney Griner's wife, Cherelle T. Griner, is speaking out on the WNBA star's behalf after it was reported she had been detained in Russia for several weeks.
"Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me regarding my wife’s safe return from Russia. Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated. I love my wife wholeheartedly, so this message comes during one of the weakest moments of my life," Cherelle captioned a photo of the two smiling on the beach. "I understand that many of you have grown to love BG over the years and have concerns and want details. Please honor our privacy as we continue to work on getting my wife home safely. Thank you!"
Russian officials said Griner was detained after they found vape cartridges containing oil derived from cannabis in her luggage at the Sheremetyevo airport near Moscow per NBC.
The offense could land the basketball star 10 years in prison.
Griner has played over in Russia for the past seven years. The last time she played in a game was Jan. 29 for the Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg before the two-week hiatus in February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments.
Griner's home team, The Phoenix Mercury, released a statement eager for the athlete's return back to the United States.
“We love and support Brittney and at this time our main concern is her safety, physical and mental health, and her safe return home,” the team said.
The USA Basketball league also expressed concern with Griner's return.
"Brittney has always handled herself with the utmost professionalism during her long tenure with USA Basketball and her safety and wellbeing are our primary concerns," the tweet said.
Per the outlet, the State Department has issued a “do not travel” advisory for U.S. citizens thinking of heading to Russia as the Ukraine/Russia conflict escalates.
Look at the outpouring of support for Brittney from fans:
