Maxim Semyonov, a resident of Vladivostok, has been sent to trial for a third time over the 2019 death of his neighbor Alexander Tsymbalenko, the Telegram channel "112" reported.
Two separate juries have acquitted Semyonov of killing his neighbor, but prosecutors appealed each verdict and secured a new trial both times. Semyonov has consistently denied guilt, insisting that Tsymbalenko left his home alive.
Tsymbalenko was found dead in a courtyard in August 2019. Investigators believe he had been visiting Semyonov that evening and was beaten during an argument.
Inconsistencies in the case
The case file contains details that investigators say contradict Semyonov's involvement. Tsymbalenko had at least 15 wounds to his head, chest and abdomen, but Semyonov had no corresponding injuries or blood on his hands, according to examinations of his clothing and biological samples kept in the case materials.
Investigators believe the beating happened inside Semyonov's apartment, though Tsymbalenko's body was found outside with no drag marks. His clothing and legs were heavily covered in sand and dirt, while Semyonov's apartment was clean. His lawyers believe Tsymbalenko may have gone elsewhere after leaving the apartment and suffered the fatal injuries there. A watch and a cross belonging to Tsymbalenko went missing, but neither was found in Semyonov's possession.
Missing footage
A short clip from a courtyard surveillance camera shows Tsymbalenko arriving at Semyonov's home, but no footage exists of him leaving or where he went afterward. The camera, entered as evidence, had been kept by Tsymbalenko's wife, who told the court she either threw it away or gave it to someone else.
Juries acquitted Semyonov first in 2021 and again in September 2024, with the court affirming his right to rehabilitation both times.
