Marc Fogel: The Unjust Imprisonment of an American Teacher

Marc Fogel, a 61-year-old American teacher, has been languishing in a Russian prison for nearly three years, unjustly accused of drug possession. His story is a chilling reminder of the dangers of international travel and the arbitrary nature of justice in some parts of the world.

Fogel spent his career as a dedicated teacher, educating children in schools across the United States. In 2018, he arrived in Russia to teach English at an elite boarding school in Moscow. He was drawn by the opportunity to make a positive impact on young lives.

Fogel's world came crashing down in August 2021, when he was arrested at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport. Customs officials found a small amount of medical cannabis in his luggage, prescribed for his severe back pain. In Russia, possession of even a trace amount of drugs is a serious crime.

Fogel vehemently denied any wrongdoing, arguing that he had legally obtained the cannabis in the United States. However, Russian authorities ignored his pleas and charged him with drug trafficking, a crime that carried a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

The trial was a sham. Fogel was denied access to adequate legal counsel and interpreters. The prosecution's case was based on flimsy evidence, and the judge refused to consider any mitigating circumstances.

In June 2022, Fogel was sentenced to 14 years in a penal colony, a harsh punishment for a non-violent offense. He was sent to a remote prison facility, where he endured inhumane conditions and was denied proper medical care.

Fogel has consistently maintained his innocence and has appealed his conviction. In November 2022, the Moscow City Court rejected his appeal, upholding the original sentence.

Fogel's case has sparked international outrage and diplomatic pressure on Russia. The United States government has condemned the unjust sentence and called for his immediate release.

Fogel's family and supporters have launched a campaign to raise awareness about his case and to advocate for his freedom. They have organized protests, written letters to government officials, and appealed to the international community.

Marc Fogel is an innocent man who has been unjustly imprisoned. His life is in danger, and he needs our help. We must continue to raise our voices and demand his immediate release.

To learn more about Marc Fogel's case and how you can help, visit his website.