First conviction for evasion of mobilization: court sentenced to 3 years in prison.

According to ТСН: The Kamianske District Court in the Cherkasy region issued a verdict against a 56-year-old man, sentencing him to 3 years of imprisonment for evasion of mobilization.

According to the court's decision, in July 2024, the man underwent a military medical commission, which recognized him as fit for service in supply and security units. On the same day, an attempt was made to hand him a 'combat' summons for dispatch, but he refused to sign it and did not appear at the gathering point the next day.

Defendant's explanation

During the trial, the man partially admitted his guilt, explaining that he did not come to the dispatch not out of unwillingness to serve, but due to health reasons:

• He noted that in the morning of July 25, he felt excessively high blood pressure.

• He said that the medical examination at the Military Medical Commission was 'too quick.'

• He presented the court with several medical certificates and MRI results dated from different years.

The family doctor confirmed that the patient had consulted her, but only after refusing the summons.

TCU representatives also emphasized that the man did not challenge the Military Medical Commission's conclusion according to the law and did not report the reasons for his absence within three days.

Court ruling

The court critically approached the defendant's arguments, considering them an attempt to evade responsibility.

'Release from serving the sentence with a probationary period cannot prevent the commission of new offenses by other individuals, which is unacceptable in a state of war.'

The judge also noted that evasion from defending the Fatherland creates an impression of impunity in society. As a result, the man was found guilty under Article 336 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and sentenced to 3 years of imprisonment.

This case underscores the seriousness with which the Ukrainian judicial system regards evasion of military service, especially in a state of war. The court's verdict may serve as a warning to others who have plans to evade their civic duties to the country. Although the man attempted to justify his refusal, the court deemed his actions unacceptable in this difficult time for the country.