Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, an American soldier apprehended in Russia on theft allegations, will remain in pretrial detention until July 2, according to Russian authorities. Black allegedly stole property belonging to a woman he met in South Korea, causing her "significant damage," prompting Russian officials to extend his detention.
Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, an American soldier detained in Russia since May 2, 2024, will remain in pretrial detention until July 2, the Pervomaisky District Court of Vladivostok has ruled. Black, a 34-year-old infantryman assigned to the Eighth Army U.S. Forces Korea, traveled to Vladivostok "for personal reasons" prior to his arrest, according to the Pentagon.
Russian authorities allege that Black stole money from a 32-year-old woman he met in South Korea. The woman filed a police report, accusing Black of theft, and he was subsequently taken into custody at a hotel. Black's mother, Melody Jones, claims that her son was "set up" by the woman, whom she suspects may be a spy.
Pentagon Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh stated that official or authorized travel to Russia is strictly prohibited, as per Department of Defense guidelines. Singh confirmed that Black was not authorized to visit Russia and that an administrative investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his travel.
Black deployed to Iraq from October 2009 through September 2010 and to Afghanistan from June 2013 until March 2014. He was expected to return to the U.S. while on leave in April 2024 but instead traveled to Vladivostok.
Jones, expressing concerns about her son's safety, urged the U.S. government to intervene and ensure his release. However, officials have remained tight-lipped about negotiations with Russian authorities.
The U.S. embassy in Moscow is providing consular assistance to Black and is monitoring his case closely. The embassy has expressed concerns about Black's detention and has urged Russian authorities to treat him fairly.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has also raised concerns about Black's detention, highlighting the potential for human rights violations. The ACLU has called for Black's immediate release and the protection of his civil liberties.
Black's continued detention has raised questions about the diplomatic relations between the United States and Russia. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The U.S. government has condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine and imposed economic sanctions on the country. Russia has accused the U.S. of escalating the conflict and supporting neo-Nazi elements in Ukraine.
Black's case has drawn attention to the complexities of international travel and the importance of adhering to diplomatic protocols. It remains to be seen whether Black will face additional charges or be released before the scheduled July 2 hearing.
