Sentence Suspended in Ukraine Beating

A demonstration of journalists in Kyiv in May criticizing the beating of journalists (file photo)

KYIV -- Three men have received suspended sentences for beating two journalists in Ukraine.

A court in Kyiv sentenced the three to prison terms of between two and three years, with suspension of the implementation of the sentence.

The men pleaded guilty and offered their apologies to journalists Olha Snitsarchuk and Vadym Sodel.

The three were among a group of men dressed in track suits who attacked activists and journalists during an opposition gathering in Kyiv in May.

The incident sparked protests by journalists in Kyiv, who demanded the attackers be brought to justice.

Opposition lawmakers also demanded explanations regarding reports that police did not interfere with the beatings.

Both the Committee to Protect Journalists and Freedom House condemned the attack and urged Ukrainian authorities to investigate.