Skier tearful in court over Uktus teenager assault

Chkalovsky District Court of Yekaterinburg issued a decision to arrest 38-year-old Yakov Shusharin. The man was sent to a pre-trial detention center for two months. He has been charged under Part 1 of Article 213 of the Russian Criminal Code, which qualifies his actions as hooliganism.

The incident that led to the criminal case occurred on January 17 at the Uktus ski slope. Shusharin was skiing with his wife and child when a 13-year-old boy named Vlastimir on a snow scooter descended on them at full speed. According to the investigation, the skier in response attacked the teenager and began beating him with his fists on the head and torso.

Medical examination recorded that the injured boy had a closed craniocerebral trauma and a concussion.

During the court hearing, the accused repented for his actions. He also denied suggestions that he shaved his mustache to hide from law enforcement agencies.

With tears in his eyes, Shusharin addressed the court:

«As soon as I saw the video recording, I came to give testimony. I have a small child at home, I have a job. I ask to be left at home until the trial.»

Then he directly apologized to the victim«s family:

»Can I apologize? I ask for your forgiveness, I committed a foolish act. I don«t know how I would behave in a situation if my son were beaten by an adult man. I want to apologize for my act. I don»t know if you will accept the apologies. I did this act not out of evil intentions, I was scared for my family. It«s hard for me to sleep now. I ask for forgiveness and ask not to deprive my daughter of her father, to put yourself in my position. I am ready to compensate for all losses, ready to see a psychiatrist to find out if I am dangerous to society, if necessary. Please forgive me.»

The teenager«s mother, Kristina, stated in court that she does not accept the apologies and demanded the selection of a preventive measure in the form of detention.

Earlier, Shusharin had already given explanations regarding his behavior on the day of the incident, presenting his own version of events.