"No matter how many years you sentence me to, even if my country needs my life, I am ready to give it. I have been ready for this more than once, and I am still ready today," said Vepkhia Kasradze, who is accused of organizing group violence, during his court hearing.

As he explained, he never even considered going into hiding. He began his speech by addressing the judge, Davit Mgelashvili.

"I want to express my deep respect for you... I was expecting a call, a summons, and I would have responded. When the police came, I was with a friend. They grabbed him and asked, 'Are you Vepkhia Kasradze?' I said, 'Yes, I am.' I could have said, 'Vepkhia Kasradze was here but left,' but I would not have done that to myself or to them. I am glad that there are police officers who respect a warrior, a brave man...

I want the truth to be established, so that this country can finally become a just nation once and for all.

It does not matter how many years I am sentenced to. I am happy to be punished for my homeland, for the love of my country. No matter how many years you sentence me to, even if my country needs my life, I am ready to give it. I have been ready for this more than once, and I am still ready today.

Until our country becomes a dignified and just nation, I will continue to fight legally and fairly," Kasradze stated.

For reference, among those arrested during the protests, three individuals—Zviad Tsetskhladze, Vepkhia Kasradze, and Vasil Kadzelashvili—are accused of organizing and leading group violence. They face 6 to 9 years of imprisonment.

Additionally, five other defendants—Giorgi Gorgadze, Irakli Miminoshvili, Insaf Aliyev, Tornike Goshadze, and Nikoloz Javakhishvili—are accused of participating in group violence. They face 4 to 6 years ofimprisonment.