Brittney Griner was unexpectedly transported to a Russian penal colony on Friday. The move has raised questions from her family and legal team regarding Griner’s location. Per ESPN, the transfer began on Friday seemingly ahead of schedule.
Griner’s lawyers were not made aware of the transfer until sometime on Tuesday. Additionally, her location may not be known for some time. “Notification is given via official mail and normally takes up to two weeks to be received,” her legal team explained.
Brittney Griner’s move to the penal colony comes after her detention in a Moscow jail. The WNBA star has been imprisoned in Russia since her February arrest for drug charges. In August, she was found guilty and sentenced to a nine year prison sentence.
“Every minute that Brittney Griner must endure wrongful detention in Russia is a minute too long,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in a statement on Wednesday. Jean-Pierre also said that the Biden administration was working “tirelessly” to secure Griner’s release, as well as improving the conditions she may face in the penal colony.
Lindsay Kagawa Colas, Griner’s agent, stated that she remains in contact with the US government and is hopeful for a holiday release. Colas gave a statement expressing thanks for the support on Griner’s behalf.
Brittney Griner’s legal troubles
Since her arrest on February 17, Griner’s detention has been a contentious topic in US-Russia relations. Due to America’s support for Ukraine in their war against Russia, Griner has been considered a high-value hostage.
In May, it was reported that a prisoner swap was being negotiated, with Griner being exchanged for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. The deal received President Biden’s approval in July. However, after some negotiations, no further deal was reached.
White House officials continue to stress that Griner’s freedom is a high priority. Later this month, President Biden will meet with Russian president Vladimir Putin to discuss potential terms for her release.
Written by Olan Bryant
