"Faith Tempered by Trials Becomes Strong." Court in Birobidzhan Issues Verdict Against Olga Chebrak

On June 25, 2026, the Birobidzhan District Court announced its decision in the case of Olga Chebrak, 55. She was convicted for reading the Bible together with her fellow believers. The sentence handed down by Judge Svetlana Zemtsova was a 2.5-year suspended sentence with a 3-year probation period and 6 months of restrictions.

Olga has lived in Birobidzhan since her youth and has worked as a pharmacist in a drugstore for over 30 years. She has been one of Jehovah's Witnesses since 1997. The criminal case against the believer was initiated in early October 2025. Soon after, a search of her home was conducted; FSB investigators seized electronic devices and personal notes. According to the investigation, Chebrak "resumed and continued the activity of an extremist organization"—in the form of joint meetings for worship, prayers, and singing religious songs.

The case went to court in March 2026. In her final statement, Olga said: "Is there any evidence of extremism on my part, that is, hatred, enmity, or violence? Not only are there no actions—there is not a single phrase, not a single word." She added: "I am deeply saddened that the prosecution has equated me with extremism." As for her beliefs, Chebrak said: "Persecution for me is an opportunity to strengthen my faith. Faith tempered by trials becomes strong."

The Chebrak case is part of the widespread persecution of Jehovah's Witnesses in Birobidzhan. The investigation was overseen by FSB investigator Dmitriy Yankin, who in the past 5 years has initiated criminal cases against at least 20 local believers.