Rimšēvičs points to lack of evidence in bribery criminal case in his final statement

Ilmārs Rimšēvičs, the former president of the Bank of Latvia, asserted in his closing argument that prosecutors have failed to present evidence proving the specifics of alleged bribery in his criminal case.

During his three-hour statement on Monday, Rimšēvičs argued that the prosecution has not established when, where, how much, or for what specific actions bribes were supposedly paid. He is scheduled to complete his closing statement on August 28. Construction entrepreneur Māris Martinsons, also accused of bribery, is expected to deliver his final words as well.

In late 2023, the Riga District Court in Jūrmala sentenced Rimšēvičs to six years in prison and one year of probation. The court also ordered the confiscation of several of his properties. Martinsons was sentenced to five years in prison and ordered to pay over 150,000 euros, while his company faces a 3.1 million euro fine.

The Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau (KNAB) arrested Rimšēvičs and Martinsons in February 2018. Rimšēvičs faces charges of accepting bribes and money laundering, while Martinsons is accused of aiding bribery. Both defendants maintain their innocence.