On allegations of extorting a bribe in the amount of 10 000 lats (about 14 200 euros) from a convicted person sentenced with imprisonment, the Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) arrested the deputy head of prison on 8 May, 2007.
KNAB investigator started criminal proceedings for the elements of criminal offences stipulated in the Criminal Law, Section 320 (3) (Taking of bribes).
Evidence gathered during the criminal proceedings reveals that the arrested person has taken actions related to extortion during several months.
During the pre-trial investigation it was detected that the bribe in the amount of 10 000 lats was asked for taking action in the interest of the bribe giver, namely, in order that the deputy head of prison, in his position as member of administrative commission of institution of deprivation of liberty, by using his official position, would ensure a decision is taken by the administrative commission in favour of the convicted person about conditional release prior to the completion of the sentence.
The deputy head of the prison was arrested after receiving part of the bribe in the amount of 5 000 lats and is currently hold in custody.