Moshkovich, the founder of Rusagro, pleaded not guilty to fraud

Vadim Moshkovich, an entrepreneur, founder of the Rusagro agricultural holding and a former member of the Federation Council from the Belgorod Region, pleaded not guilty in the fraud case, the Izvestia correspondent reported from the courtroom on March 27.

The defendant stated that he considers himself a law-abiding citizen and an honest man. Moshkovich also denied the information that he allegedly has a plane.

"The information that I have a private jet is not true. I am under sanctions and even if I wish, I will not be able to leave the country, I do not admit guilt, I ask you to choose any measure of restraint not related to arrest," he told the judges.

The defendant also noted that he has heart problems, and he would not like to "die in prison." His lawyer added that Rusagro is ready to pay a bail for the founder of the holding company in the amount of 1 billion rubles so that he would not be arrested.

"We are against granting the petition. I ask you to attach Rusagro's statement to the court, the company is ready to make a deposit of 1 billion rubles for Moshkovich. I ask you to attach documents about the company's availability of such funds," the defense said.

Food selection: what threatens the founder of Rusagro Vadim Moshkovich?

The billionaire and the top manager of his company were charged with fraud and abuse of power.

Earlier on March 27, the Meshchansky District Court of Moscow registered the investigator's petition for the election of a preventive measure in the form of detention for Moshkovich. The defendant was brought to court. The investigation is requesting an arrest by May 25. It was reported that Moshkovich owned foreign real estate and had Israeli citizenship. The investigation is also requesting the arrest of Maxim Basov, the former CEO of the company.

A source from Izvestia had reported on the businessman's detention a day earlier. The company's offices were searched. On the same day, Moshkovich and Basov were charged with fraud and abuse of office.

It was reported that Rusagro's activities continue as normal after the searches, and the company is ready to assist law enforcement agencies. Rusagro also noted that the incident may raise questions from customers, partners and employees of the company. At the same time, it was clarified that the company conducts its activities in accordance with the law.