Monks detained in Kharkiv for abusing underage girls

Two monks of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church under the Moscow Patriarchate have been detained in Kharkiv on suspicion of serious crimes against minors.

The men, aged 52 and 24, are under investigation and face charges related to the sexual abuse of underage girls. Police have formally notified them of suspicion, and the case remains under further investigation, Ukrainska Pravda reports.

The older suspect has been remanded in custody, with the court allowing for the possibility of bail. The younger man has been placed under house arrest. Prosecutors have said they will seek stricter measures against both defendants.

The prosecutor’s office described the case as particularly grave, noting that the accused, as clergymen, had enjoyed public trust and were expected to set an example of moral conduct.

(bak)