Russian Couple Who Scaled Empire State Building for Proposal Released on Bail

A Russian couple who scaled the Empire State Building to get engaged has been released on bail following a court appearance. Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33, who reside in East Orange, New Jersey, were formally charged with reckless endangerment, trespassing, and criminal mischief after their daring stunt.

The pair appeared before a judge on Thursday, wearing the same black attire they had on during the climb. They did not enter a plea, but their lawyer argued that the prosecution had overcharged the couple. They were released on bail until their next court date on August 24.

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Even representatives of the Empire State Building confirmed that there was no risk or danger to tenants, visitors on the observation deck, or anyone else in the building.

"Even representatives of the Empire State Building confirmed that there was no risk or danger to tenants, visitors on the observation deck, or anyone else in the building," stated their attorney, Jason Krinsky. The couple reportedly entered the Empire State Building as regular visitors the night before their climb. They purchased tickets for the 86th-floor observation deck and then concealed themselves inside after closing hours, according to a police source.

After their release from court and while being followed by reporters, the couple paused on the steps and shared a prolonged kiss. Kuznetsov had told the New York Police Department that he wanted to "do something special for his engagement," prosecutors said. The couple's stunt, which reached approximately 440 meters above the city, involved displaying a black banner that read, "When the power of love overcomes the love of power, then the world will know peace," before their engagement.

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to do something special for his engagement