Gordon Black, a U.S. Army soldier, has pleaded guilty to a theft charge in eastern Russia, a Russian official confirmed to ABC News. Detained in Vladivostok earlier this month, Black admitted his guilt and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation, according to the Department of Internal Affairs of the Primorsky Territory.
Black, a staff sergeant stationed in South Korea, was arrested for criminal misconduct after traveling to Russia without permission to visit his girlfriend. Irina Syrova, a representative of the Department of Internal Affairs, stated that Black’s communication with authorities is being facilitated by an English translator. His detention is expected to last until at least July 2, pending further investigation.
According to TASS, Black’s arrest followed a disagreement with his girlfriend during his visit to Vladivostok. After he left, his friend reported missing money to the police, who then found Black in a city hotel. Despite having purchased a return flight, Black was charged with “theft causing significant damage,” which under Russian law could result in a fine, compulsory labor, or up to five years in jail.
Black’s unauthorized trip to Russia and subsequent arrest have raised concerns. U.S. officials confirmed that Black did not have clearance to visit Russia and was supposed to return to a U.S. Army base in Texas after his stint in South Korea. His mother, Melody Jones, suggested that Black was “lured” to Russia by the woman he was visiting. Black’s wife, Megan Black, despite being in the process of divorcing him, has called for his release to provide comfort to their six-year-old daughter.
The U.S. Army is investigating the circumstances of Black’s travel and whether Russian intelligence played a role in his case. Army spokesperson Cynthia O. Smith highlighted Black’s service history, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and confirmed the ongoing review of his unauthorized trip.
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