Judge Ana Cucerescu, who handles the case of Evghenia Gutul—recently sentenced to seven years in prison—has faced repeated threats over the past few months. Offenders sent her direct death threats, disturbing photos of murdered individuals, and placed repeated phone calls, including during the night. Superior Council of Magistracy (SCM) President Sergiu Caraman revealed this information and condemned the coordinated acts of intimidation during a press conference.
“All of this continued further. Someone sent a letter to media representatives, allegedly signed by the judge herself, announcing her resignation and withdrawal from the case. That letter cited supposed political pressures, but it was nothing more than a forgery. (…) Afterwards, another announcement followed, stating the judge had died and that her funeral would take place in a few days, inviting all who knew her to attend. (…) We understand that these actions are not just unacceptable—they are a direct attack on the judge, meant to intimidate and influence her upcoming rulings, which is intolerable in a democratic state,” declared Sergiu Caraman.
“A situation of exceptional gravity,” added the SCM President. He praised the courage of judges who continue to perform their duties with integrity and responsibility, despite the pressures they face. Caraman affirmed that he does not know who orchestrated these actions.
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“Those who organize or participate in such acts, whether anonymously or from public positions, will face firm reactions from judicial authorities and state institutions. Justice will not allow itself to be intimidated. Esteemed judges, you are not alone. The Council stands with you and will intervene institutionally to support every magistrate facing pressure or threats. We will use every legal tool to ensure your protection and guarantee that you can carry out your duties without fear.
We urge the Prosecutor’s Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to treat these actions as a top investigative priority, swiftly identify those responsible, and take immediate steps to prevent further threats.”We protect not only individuals, but also the principle of judicial independence. Authorities refuse to cross this red line and vow to uphold it without exception. We ask judicial associations to express solidarity with these messages,” added the SCM President.
Caraman also revealed that an SCM member faced threats meant to force unlawful action.“These are not isolated incidents—they suggest a coordinated campaign intended to undermine judicial independence,” he concluded.
The Gagauz governor will spend the next seven years in prison, following the ruling of the Chisinau Court, Buiucani office. The court also ordered the confiscation of 40 million lei for the benefit of the state. The defendant can appeal the sentence to the Court of Appeal.