The Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (PA) has announced that it has sent the criminal case against Marina Tauber, a member of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, to court for examination on the grounds of committing the crime of interference in the course of justice, specifically in any form. In court adjudication, the aim is to prevent biased evaluations and ensure a thorough and objective examination of the case. After reviewing the materials of the criminal proceedings and addressing the defence’s requests and complaints, a lawful judgment should be delivered.
On May 2, 2023, the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office referred a case to the Acting Prosecutor General of the Republic of Moldova, who initiated criminal proceedings. The case remains assigned to the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office.
“On April 12, 2023, Marina Tauber, a member of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, interfered in the trial of the case on appeal at the Chisinau Court of Appeal. She did so to prevent the examination of the criminal case against Ilan Shor for committing the crimes of swindling and money laundering, and the pronouncement of an illegal court decision, using her work situation. During the trial, the appellant used a high-powered megaphone to intimidate and insult the honour and dignity of the judges on the panel and the public prosecutor, threatening to block the trial by claiming that 3,000 supporters were waiting outside who would further jeopardise the trial, …we will remain here until nightfall if necessary. Three thousand people have come to support Ilan Shor and demand fair justice. If this debauchery and pressure on our leader continue, we will block all trials. This building must be blocked, as illegalities are being committed here. As a member of Parliament, I have come to inform everyone of what is happening here…
In these circumstances, the panel had to interrupt the hearing and withdraw from the courtroom. These actions were subsequently described as an attempt to disrupt the hearing, obstruct the conduct of justice, endanger the course of justice, intimidate the judges, obstruct the exercise of their professional duties, and offend the honour and dignity of the judges,” the press release issued by the PA states.
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On 14 March 2024, Parliament granted a waiver of parliamentary immunity to refer the case of Marina Tauber MP to criminal court for the offence of interfering with the course of justice.
According to prosecutors, the defendant did not admit to committing the crime. The criminal case has been sent for examination on the merits to the Buiucani Court of Chisinau.
If convicted of the offence of interfering with the course of justice, the defendant may face a penalty of up to four years imprisonment or a fine ranging from 37,500 to 47,500 lei. In either case, the defendant may also be deprived of the right to hold certain offices or engage in certain activities for up to three years.
Note: In criminal cases, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a final court decision.