The journalist Nika Katsia, who was charged with a drug-related crime, was deemed innocent by the court and was released from the courtroom by the decision of Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili.

At today’s hearing, the judge listened to the defendant’s final statement, after which she announced the verdict.

The judge provided a detailed explanation regarding the verdict she reached.

“As for what was my responsibility and the opportunity I had, in accordance with Article 191, Prima, of the Procedural Code, I referred [Katsia’s statement regarding possible degrading actions against him] to a special investigative body.

Regarding what the prosecution accuses you of, evidence must be evaluated based on its neutrality and reliability.

The court evaluates the entirety of the evidence. The prosecution has presented an expert opinion stating that the narcotic substance belonged to Nikoloz Katsia. According to the defense’s explanation, this substance did not belong to Nikoloz Katsia.

The court must evaluate the evidence of both the defense and the prosecution. The court assesses the testimonies of the individuals who conducted the personal search. Additionally, the court must consider whether it was possible to obtain neutral evidence, such as video recordings or the presence of a neutral witness.

The court emphasizes that he [Katsia] confirmed the authenticity of the personal search by signing it, while the witnesses stated that due to resistance, they were unable to record a video. The investigator could have prepared protocols on the spot and had a calm Nikoloz Katsia sign them...

Nikoloz Katsia signed the protocol, confirming its accuracy, but he denied the fact and stated that due to a stressful situation, he did not know what he was signing. According to the defense’s version, there was a possibility that a neutral person could have been present at the search.

Once again, and a thousand times over, I note that Nika Katsia signed the personal search protocol and confirmed its accuracy, but doubts arose in court as to whether it was possible for a neutral person to be present during this investigative action. In this case, there is doubt that law enforcement could have conducted video recording, which was not done, and they could have invited a neutral witness,” Mchedlishvili stated.

She explained that all doubts must be resolved in favor of the defendant.

Additionally, the judge addressed Katsia: “Next time, read carefully what you are signing.”

For reference, Nika Katsia was detained on December 7. He was charged under Article 260, Part 6 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to the illegal acquisition or possession of large quantities of narcotic substances.

This crime carries a penalty of 8 to 20 years of imprisonment or life imprisonment.