Additional Name(s): Maksim Nikolayevich Beltikov, Бельтиков Максим Николаевич

Gender: Male

Perpetrator: Russia

Religion or Belief: Christian – Jehovah's Witness

Reports of Torture: No

Reports of Medical Neglect: No

Sentence: 2 Years' Imprisonment

Date of Detainment: January/17/2022

Date of Sentencing: January/22/2022

Date of Release: September/15/2023

Current Status: Released

Religious Leader: No

Most Recent Type of Abuse: Imprisonment

Reason for Persecution: Discussing Religion & Religious Texts Religious Activity Religious Belief

Nature of Charges: Banned Organization Extremism

Maksim Beltikov

Extra Bio Info:

Maksim Beltikov was imprisoned for his religious belief and activity.

In April 2020, authorities raided Beltikov's home.

In June 2021, a formal investigation was opened against Beltikov for allegedly “participating in the activities of a public or religious association, or any other organization in respect of which a court has adopted a final decision to liquidate or ban activities in connection with extremist activities” (Art. 282.2-2 RCC). The basis of the investigation was reportedly over an audio recording of Beltikov discussing the Bible.

On January 17, 2022, the Pavlovskiy District Court of Krasnodar sentenced Beltikov to two years in prison. Beltikov was taken into custody following the trial.

On September 15, 2023, Beltikov was released from prison after completing his sentence.

Beltikov is married with three children.

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