Returned Russian Prisoner Reveals Brutal Treatment in U.S. Prison

Written by Kathrine Frich

Aug.03 - 2024 5:40 PM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock
Roman Seleznev was held at the Seattle-Tacoma Federal Detention Center.

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Roman Seleznev, recently brought back to Russia, has disclosed harrowing details about his experience in a U.S. prison.

Treated Very Poorly

Speaking on Russia’s First Channel, Seleznev recounted the severe mistreatment he endured, including nearly being killed on multiple occasions, according to URA.

According to Seleznev, he was initially placed in solitary confinement upon arrival, where conditions were dire.

"They treated me very poorly and put me in a cell where I had to check in every two hours," Seleznev described. The grim environment and the constant surveillance were part of what made his imprisonment so traumatic.

Convicted of Cybercrime and Identity Theft

Roman Seleznev, a Russian hacker convicted in the United States, was held at the Seattle-Tacoma Federal Detention Center (FDC Seattle) in Washington state. His incarceration there was part of his high-profile case involving charges related to cybercrime and identity theft. The Seattle-Tacoma Federal Detention Center is known for housing individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for various federal crimes.

Seleznev’s return to Russia has been accompanied by concerns over his health. His lawyer, Litvak, reported a significant decline in Seleznev's well-being, prompting urgent medical attention upon his arrival. Seleznev's case is part of a broader prisoner exchange involving eight Russians who were recently sent back to Russia from Western countries.

In addition to Seleznev, the exchange included Vladislav Klyushin, previously held in the U.S., and Vadim Sokolov (Krasikov), who had been serving a life sentence in Germany. Other individuals returning to Russia are Pavel Rubtsov, Artem and Anna Dultsev, Vadim Konoshenok, and Mikhail Mikushin.