Leonid Tikhonov Went At Large

Leonid Tikhonov, ex-chairman of the trade union  organization of the Dockers' Union of Russia (DUR) of Vostochny Port, went at large.  According to Vasily Kozarenko, the chairman of the DUR, early release on parole was the ground  for Tikhonov's release.

Leonid Tikhonov was sentenced to three and one  half years  imprisonment in the middle of December, 2014. He was accused of embezzlement of  funds. The sum of money was transferred by the port to the union. The money was intended for the  mass cultural events. But in the union's view it is false charge. The true reason of Tikhonov's arrest is his active and lawful activities. Before his arrest in June 2012, the union managed to dig in heels in their dispute with the port administration, which was attempting  to cut some bonuses, including bonuses for working in hazard environment. Directly after this, the criminal prosecution was initiated.

 Tikhonov's arrest caused the outrage of Russian dockers, as well as International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), which organized the Campaign of Solidarity  with Leonid Tikhonov. In addition, the Dockers' Union of Russia  transferred RUB370000 to the account of Vostochny Port. Although the union  confirmed in the court the fact of receiving New Year gifts or  designated use of funds on  mass cultural events, this sum of money was  declared by the administration as loss.

The following future of Leonid Tikhonov is unclear. According to Vasily Kozarenko, it will be clear in next  two or three days. Under the court decision, Tikhonov was prohibited from  engaging into union activity. Perhaps, he may occupy a  chair of lawyer or inspector. While Leonid Tikhonov is getting congratulations from the DUR's members and fraternal unions on his release, the  Seafarers' Union of Russia joins to congratulations and expresses its gratitude to all who assisted in Tikhonov's defense and his early parole.