Home » Brittney Griner: Jailed in Russia, Then Freed

Brittney Griner: Jailed in Russia, Then Freed

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US basketball star Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in a Russian prison in August 2022. She was freed in a prisoner swap that December.

Key Facts

  • Arrested: 17 February 2022 at a Moscow airport
  • Sentenced: 4 August 2022, nine years
  • Team: Phoenix Mercury
  • Freed: 8 December 2022
  • Swapped for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout

The Case

Police found vape cartridges with cannabis oil in her luggage. US President Joe Biden called the sentence “unacceptable”.

Update

Griner was released on 8 December 2022 in Abu Dhabi, in exchange for Viktor Bout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Griner jailed?

For bringing cannabis oil vape cartridges into Russia.

How long was her sentence?

Nine years.

When was she freed?

8 December 2022.

Conclusion

Griner came home after almost 10 months.

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