"Faith Tested by Trials is Made Strong." Court Issues Verdict Against Olga Chebrak

On June 25, 2026, the Birobidzhanskiy District Court announced its decision in the case of Olga Chebrak, 55. She was convicted for reading the Bible together with her fellow believers. Judge Svetlana Zemtsova handed down 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, her home was searched; 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 even a single word." She added: "I am deeply disappointed that the prosecutor has drawn an equal sign between me and extremism." As for her beliefs, Chebrak said: "This prosecution is an opportunity for me to strengthen my faith. Faith tested by trials is made strong."

The Chebrak case is part of the widespread prosecution 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.