Rutland Man Accused of Arson Plot Linked to Russian Website
A 30-year-old man from Rutland has appeared before the Old Bailey following allegations that he conspired to set fire to a vehicle linked to Ukraine. Artsem Sadardzinau appeared via video-link from prison on Friday for a preliminary hearing that shed light on a case involving international tensions and online solicitation of crime.
The prosecution alleges that Sadardzinau was involved in a conspiracy to commit arson between 31 August and 15 February. Central to the Crown’s case is the defendant’s alleged interaction with a Russian-language website.
During the hearing, prosecutors stated that Sadardzinau visited a platform that "appears to support and facilitate unlawful activity." It is suggested that the target of the arson plot was a car from Ukraine, marking the case as one with potential geopolitical undertones.
Appearing at the Central Criminal Court, Sadardzinau listened as the framework for the legal proceedings was established.
The Charge, conspiracy with others to commit arson to damage a vehicle by fire.
The Plea, while a formal plea was not entered during this preliminary stage, his lawyer indicated that the defendant intends to plead not guilty.
Sadardzinau has been remanded into custody pending further hearings.
The legal process for this case is set to be a marathon rather than a sprint. Given the complexity of the evidence which likely involves digital forensics and international web activity the court has scheduled a provisional trial date for 6 April 2027. The trial is expected to take place at Leicester Crown Court
Note: Under UK law, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
