**Batumelebi Founder Awaits Verdict in Assault Case**
Today, August 6, Judge Nino Sakhelashvili will deliver the verdict in the criminal case against Mzia Amaglobeli, founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti. The courtroom drama has been unfolding for months, with Amaglobeli maintaining her innocence throughout.
In a final statement at a previous hearing, Amaglobeli emphasized that slapping the head of Batumi Police chief Irakli Dgebuadze did not constitute an assault on a police officer. She expressed outrage at the prosecution’s offer of a plea deal, which she saw as “extremely insulting.” According to her, the slap was a legitimate response and should be treated as such under Georgian law.
**The Plea Deal Controversy**
Amaglobeli’s lawyers had initially considered accepting the prosecution’s plea deal, but their client refused. In a passionate statement, Amaglobeli described how this offer would effectively mean being “buried alive.” She argued that slapping someone is not an assault and should be treated as a lesser offense.
For context, Mzia Amaglobeli faces charges of assaulting a police officer, punishable by 4 to 7 years in prison. The case has sparked concerns about the treatment of journalists and freedom of speech in Georgia.
**Awaiting Justice**
The verdict is scheduled for delivery at 14:00 today. As Judge Sakhelashvili prepares to deliver her decision, supporters of Mzia Amaglobeli will be watching closely. Will she receive justice, or will the prosecution’s case prevail? Only time will tell.
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