Vadim Pilnikov, the former mayor of Degtyarsk, has been sentenced to 10 years in a strict regime colony for accepting a large-scale bribe. The Kirov District Court of Yekaterinburg delivered the verdict.

The court found that Pilnikov accepted bribes totaling over 890,000 rubles and an Audi Q6, valued at 9.5 million rubles, from his deputy between March and October 2023, and in April 2024. In exchange, Pilnikov was expected to overlook the deputy’s simultaneous engagement in municipal service and commercial activities.

Pilnikov also accepted bribes from the founder of the company “Residential Quarters” and approved the acceptance of residential buildings with violations. These buildings were then used to relocate residents from dilapidated housing.

Pilnikov pleaded guilty and expressed remorse for his actions. He was taken into custody in the courtroom immediately after the verdict.

The court ordered the confiscation of the expensive car from the former official. Pilnikov was initially detained in Yekaterinburg on December 5. During the trial, witnesses testified about his detention and provided character references. Prior to the verdict, Pilnikov was under house arrest.