Former “Georgian Dream” MP and veteran wrestler Luka Kurtanidze, who is accused of domestic violence against his ex-wife, intentional damage to her property, and violation of the terms set by a restraining order, denies the charges.

As Kurtanidze’s lawyer, Ivane Meparishvili, told InterpressNews, the accused was the victim of a major provocation and has not committed violence against anyone.

“He does not admit to the charges and believes that this is the result of a major provocation carried out against him. Kurtanidze has become a victim of a significant provocation orchestrated by forces seeking to create destabilization and unrest in society. In recent months, we’ve seen these forces using various methods to attack well-known public figures. One such method involved using his ex-wife, with whom it was known that Kurtanidze had disputes and problems. This was exploited effectively, and they achieved a small success in this regard. Now Kurtanidze is in custody, facing charges under three articles.

I want to reassure all his supporters and anyone who believes that Luka Kurtanidze is not only not a violent person, but someone who has spent his life loving people and fighting for justice. All the achievements and successes he brought to the country on the international stage were the result of that love and humanity, which ties him to his country and his people. He became the victim of a serious provocation by these forces. Luka is deeply affected by the fact that his ex-wife, whom he supported during their cohabitation, was used. The property that is now disputed — half of it was transferred to her through a gift agreement by Luka himself. Not only that, but she ended up with property in Tskneti and a house in Borjomi as well. But when he realized this woman had different intentions and was motivated by something else, he distanced himself and demanded back what had been deceitfully re-registered. During this period, various legal disputes were ongoing. His enemies exploited this very effectively — they identified this weak spot and approached it fully prepared, setting up a provocation,” said Meparishvili.

Asked who orchestrated the provocation, the lawyer replied:

“This woman was used as a provocateur by the United National Movement.”

"Kurtanidze’s enemies and those who have been publicly attacking public figures in recent months — they tried to deflect attention. Luka emotionally responded to his ex-wife when she began insulting and filming him inside the house he had acquired through hard work and sweat. Luka left Abkhazia with nothing but the clothes on his back, and later gave part of his property to this woman. In the end, it all culminated in the provocation that took place that day. When Luka arrived at his own house, the police had already been called, and the woman was recording him. He became emotional and asked her to leave the premises,” said the lawyer.

Asked whether Kurtanidze had physically assaulted his ex-wife, Meparishvili answered:

"Kurtanidze denies using any physical force. As for the rest — we are currently reviewing the criminal case materials.”

Asked where the victim received the injuries and the concussion, Meparishvili replied that this should be determined by an expert examination:

“The victim claims it, but no forensic conclusion has been issued yet, and it is not known under what circumstances or in what context the injuries occurred.”

Later today, Batumi City Court will hold a hearing to decide on the measure of restraint for Luka Kurtanidze. The prosecution is requesting pre-trial detention as the strictest measure. Meanwhile, the defense is requesting that Kurtanidze be released without any restraining measures and, alternatively, will offer bail to the court.

For reference: The former “Georgian Dream” MP and veteran wrestler Luka Kurtanidze has been charged by the Prosecutor’s Office with domestic violence, intentional damage to a family member’s property, and failure to comply with the conditions and obligations set by a restraining order — charges which carry a sentence of up to 5 years in prison.