Brittney Griner sentenced to 9 years in Russian prison for drug charges | full coverage

WNBA star Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison and given a fine of 1 million rubles (approximately $16,500) by a Russian court on Thursday after she was found guilty of drug possession and smuggling.
#news #brittneygriner #WNBA
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[@I-AM-BELIEVER]

Brittney spent so much time talking about how oppressed she was here and how much of a terrible country this was. Now she’s about to learn what real oppression is. Enjoy.

[@rizikrizik1395]

She did? I didn’t know that

[@rayman1269]

Smh

[@jeremymoore145]

Didn’t know that. Wow

[@emilytrevino4023]

Say it louder!!

[@samuelneil2691]

Accountability will come to all of those that road this bully campaign of fake social justice. You love to see it.

[@gabrielmartinez6639]

If she wasn’t famous no one would care! If I did the same thing I would be facing years in jail!

[@Yespls888]

And it would still be wrong if it were you or anyone else. Of course she has a higher profile so it's getting more attention. Either way, the sentence is super harsh for the "crime"

[@noneya1238]

Because you're a nobody, of course you won't get attention. but that guy from North Korea did get attention and he wasn't famous.

[@infraredgoldfish]

@@Yespls888 yeah, because YOU get to determine another countries laws and how they are enforced? You fall on your head or something?

[@persistentlypathetic6820]

She's barely even famous

[@clmaynor]

Never heard of him/her before this happened.

[@selltheteam4448]

“Here in China,” Griner says, “you just have to forget everything you know, or think you know, and be willing to accept a new set of rules.” - Griner in a 2014 article with ESPN

[@DIAMONDGIRL57]

She knows better.

[@SalsaSippin_]

He knows better.

[@asdfbill8020]

Long before this revelation it was said, "when in Rome, do as the Romans do".

[@gloriaarevalo9163]

@@SalsaSippin_ Stop been homophobic!

[@SalsaSippin_]

@@gloriaarevalo9163 Your comment was hidden from public. 🍻

[@brutussmithers6341]

That’s too bad. Lots of time for her to think about how terrible the United States is in there.

[@basictruth11-09]

No she gets to think about how she made a horrible decision! Please don't try and act like we don't have an atrocious double standard judicial system. I've suffered a severe loss due to that system, just as well as others have easily lost their lives, due to that same system thinking and justifying taking their lives even though they were innocent

[@williampfaffjr7684]

AND, she may be able to wear her "blm" jacket IN JAIL and NOT HAVE TO STAND FOR OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM !! Sounds like great deal for her.....WHAT ? NO, I DON'T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT HER ~ PERIOD !!

[@connectingseas7173]

It’s always unintentional, when you get caught.

[@petedavidson6931]

Sorry oops....my BAD...can I go now!!! I really have a full schedule.

[@equilibrium2147]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 that’s true😂

[@basictruth11-09]

FACTS. Also, she says that her rights weren't explained, etc, but you know Damn Well that you have rights in the U.S., and Human Rights as well, and that someone could contact the US Embassy. This is not the U.S where you can do that stupid assed plea bargain and get a lighter sentence. She should've fought for her rights, because she was facing 10 years if found guilty, and still got 9 years for pleading guilty.

[@danielhulce8963]

I unintentionally stole your things lol ya right

[@khalilreacts1166]

But less than a gram she had on her lol 9years is rediculous

[@Sebastian-jk9kk]

I think she made a big mistake, but let's keep the arms dealers in jail where they belong.

[@psychicladyg9415]

Ya think? Lol

[@conniepr]

Ikr All those weapons there and going to release an arms dealer.

[@ssdtrain1]

and that's why she's still there.. the US won't release an arms dealer during a Russian war with Ukraine.. She F'ed up and Biden didn't make it much better talking all that crap about Putin.. both are idiots.. P.S. no BLM there to start a riot for you Brittney..

[@Sebastian-jk9kk]

@@psychicladyg9415 send her some psychic healing

[@wakingupKosher]

Just take one day at a time and trust God. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oau8Ynekr9Z7m6c

[@InvictumLupus]

“People don’t want her sitting in jail.” TF we don’t! She can stay there and pay for her crime. We all have decisions we make and with them come consequences.

[@vivihermosillo2461]

Asking for her to be free of this charge is hypocritical. How many are in jail in America for the same reason?? Should they be free too?

[@lucaskelley9858]

@@vivihermosillo2461 you obviously don't know how to read. Sit down

[@patriciarivera8290]

My opinion equals yours I said it before and I say it again , Americans must be educated about rules from other countries where they really follow rules 😡

[@RAFCMC702]

9 years for the what she did? Does that seem fair to you? And I agree that people in America are also unjustly imprisoned, but that does not mean that her sentence in Russia is fair and decent for a human being.

[@RAFCMC702]

@@vivihermosillo2461 To answer your dumb question bluntly, yes! They should be! Marijuana and marijuana products should be legal!

[@truthseeker243]

What a culture shock for those who erroneously think the world should be fashioned around and cater to their FEELINGS.

[@ssgemactv1775]

Yeah bro she also hates America but now wants uncle Sam to come rescue hair

[@usinfantry1987]

As someone who has been to Russia several times and also China for work. The first thing you do is check THEIR LAWS. You check and double check your bags, carry on items for anything that might even be close to breaking their laws. These countries are not like America, they do not play around. Fame and status mean nothing.

[@dazadams6660]

“Fame and status mean nothing” and in a bitter sweet way I say with respect that’s the only thing I really love about those countries

[@lucioarreola7339]

She wasn't wrongfully detained she chose to take drugs into a country that actually enforces the laws. I guess her WNBA career is over.

[@rohipsalm2370]

Wish it was looked at like that in 🇺🇸. We would certainly be better off.

[@swankyangelo]

@@rohipsalm2370 no you don’t. America was founded inspite of this. That’s why people fled, for freedom! (Weed was legal at some point in America) that’s why the United states works because it allows people to pursuit their freedoms. That’s why you love the United States, everyone wants to be here (despite how much trash they talk about it) you don’t know what’s like to live in a country where individualism doesn’t matter, and I don’t think you’d want to after getting a taste for it. China nor Russia will ever provide you with that freedom. Sure we’re chattel in the United States, like the majority of the people of the world, but at least we get freedoms here that many countries do not give their citizens. Even if the percentage is small, everything and anything is possible in the United States, can’t say the same about any other country in the world.

[@danielhulce8963]

This is more about the gay way verses the law.

[@DaSliceAndDice]

If I ever had to travel to any foreign country, especially Russia, I’m making 1000% sure I don’t have ANYTHING that might be considered illegal. Sucks she got 9 years but she easily could’ve avoided this.

[@goodguy...badrep.]

Yep yep. Agreed. Easily avoidable 👌🏾

[@fatherpetey2866]

Could have very well been planted on her. Either way there is no way I’m stepping foot in Russia. Especially in this climate.

[@wesleywarsmith1113]

Exaclty id be vacuuming my luggage bags for days prior. NOTHING even remotely close to illegal.

[@BL77357]

Or just don't go

[@pokerT1]

@@wesleywarsmith1113 😂

[@truthistruth4186]

Can't say I feel sorry for her. That's what happens when you break the law.

[@Polemic-2525]

I don’t have to know you, but we all break laws at some point. You get in your car you might speed a little maybe even J walk. I feel sorry for her because I don’t believe in crushing a person’s humanity and spirit by hurting them . I do believe we should have accountability but in her case maybe 2 or 3 years but not 9 years . 9 years is overkill 9 years doesn’t help her or anybody else especially given the fact that this was a victimless crime. I try to live my life with compassion, that’s why I’m hurting for her too. I’m asking you to look in the direction in showing compassion towards others and have a kind heart towards yourself ad others, because you never know when you’ll need the same in return. Hopefully they’ll go easy on her and she comes out of this thing ok. God bless you Brittney.

[@ambermceachern6959]

@@Polemic-2525 they wouldn't go easy on any average American in Russia that breaks the law, why should she be a exception or above harsh Russian law?

[@sharonlofton8645]

be really honest, how many laws have you broken and gotten away with?

[@truthistruth4186]

@Sharon Lofton When I broke the law I got caught. 😂🤣😂😂 An I didn't feel sorry for myself. An nobody in my did either.

[@thejamaicanpolak3988]

i smoke weed everyday but when i go to different countries i respect their laws

[@imbobbymudda]

People should really take time to understand laws of other countries before entering. A prime example that just because you're a US citizen doesn't get you a get out of jail free card.

[@hugoschkiglitz]

Dumbest comment on the internet award

[@toradog5719]

People shouldn't go to Russia.

[@mikrokozm9]

US citizens don't understand their own laws. Time won't solve that.

[@briandurrence4868]

Do you actually think she did not know what she was doing was against Russian law? Get real!

[@filaspeaks1094]

I wish that was your Yht mother they had

[@drwingogringo7299]

People don’t really know how good they have it here in America until you start going to some of these other countries.

[@Duniani21]

There is alot of dictatorship camouflaging as good laws. America is the BEST NATION apart from one more which I would say. Most of the other nations are controlled by the opposite of freedom.

[@reddyred5097]

My husband was saying how it's muuuuuch different in other countries

[@Yomi4D]

How good is it in America?

[@drwingogringo7299]

@@Yomi4D good enough where you can protest without going to jail, homosexuality is allowed , cannabis is almost country wide allowed, freedom of speech ( try disagreeing with Russian Government up to 15 year prison sentence) ahh just to name a few

[@Yomi4D]

@@drwingogringo7299 Are all these freedoms color blind?

[@emmany5302]

Learning lesson: Don't bring illicit drugs when you travel abroad.

[@slimbroco572]

My parents taught me only 2 things. Take ownership of my responsibilities. And two, to work hard for everything that you have. Oh n actually 3, which is teaching me how to not pee all over the seat when standing.

[@asdlkfjlkdjalskjfsldskljdf2593]

There's a lot of Americans in prison for the same thing.

[@spartanalphamode2987]

@Ryan Howe I have a friend who went to Russia and he was found using weed too. He got sentenced to 7 yrs in prison. Russia doesn’t take cases like this lightly.

[@loganwahl2412]

No ones in prison in America for a cart or 2

[@fauxque5057]

The other Americans are not black lesbians that this administration favors

[@TheChopf26]

@Janiece Jae what are you talking about, there are people doing life for it.....

[@traviscoates6878]

Not a single American has ever served prison time for a marijuana vape...You don’t know what you’re talking about

[@Adam-vs2in]

Moral of the story- don’t go to another country and break the law. They don’t slap you on the wrist and give you a cupcake like they do in America.

[@stm9094]

America doesn't give you cupcakes either. Find yourself in trouble with no money for your defense.🤣 Guarantee you you'd have a change of heart.

[@LurkMelon]

Doesn't make the law any less dumb. Moral of the story, don't travel to a backward country especially Russia and China. If you do you better be aware of the risk, because they can literally detain you for any reason be it political or non political.

[@Adam-vs2in]

@@stm9094 really? Do you have any idea how many people keep getting released then arrested again and again? It’s a never ending cycle.

[@johnniebeavers]

I agree., people can come here illegal and break the law but if we go to another country and break the law we get put in jail. Best thing to do is not go to another country at all.

[@lisajohns157]

@@LurkMelon backward? Because cannabis is illegal lol just respect laws

[@repentforthekingdomofgodis6848]

To those saying she deserves it, you’ve NEVER made a poor choice in your entire life? Think back to even your teenage days.

[@DoporaBHe6o]

Russian here. she got time in "female" Russian prison which is relatively chill. there will be lots of tea, chatting, chocolates and smokes. not that hard or expensive to get there. + she won't spend all 10 years in jail about 7 years is pretty much the worst case scenario (she has the right for appeal after 6-7 years and it is VERY likely to work out in Russia) EVEN if no special exceptions are made. (they will be though we all know that) and even though I don't believe the punishment should be that harsh for non-violent crime STILL she's been to Russia before and she was perfectly aware of what she was doing. so let's hope she learns the lesson, possibly Russian language, gets a chance to read great Russian classy literature and becomes a better person once released.

[@whoisbrucewayne17]

As Americans in this comment thread, we do have to appreciate the irony here. She's begging for our help but just a few months back was saying how oppressed she was while making a great paycheck playing an easy sport. At the end of the day....her celebrity status does not exempt her from the punishment. If this was any one of us, there would be zero help from the administration to get us out. Is 9 years too much? Probably. Is this a clap back for us holding one of their citizens for over a decade? Probably. But this just goes to show that you should just follow the law regardless of where you're at.

[@jrambo7495]

AMEN! PREACH IT!!!

[@cuckertarlson5310]

He

[@sawfingers1750]

For that, she can rot in jail. I have no issue with people expressing whatever, but not when you're representing a professional sports franchise.

[@ProudQLD]

@Sky Mile Can you?

[@jonathanshumpert9549]

@Sky Mile Shooting a basketball is easy. Playing at a high level is too, although it takes practice, and in her case being six and a lot feet tall didn't hurt. In the end, it is just a game that many people of all ages play for fun. She just happened to get paid well to bounce a ball.

[@trekgirl65]

She was told before going there that her American legal drugs were not legal in another country. She chose not to listen and got caught with the drugs and now has to pay the price for breaking the law.

[@donaldsquires2674]

Someone told on her that she had those cartridges

[@oldschoolzone5711]

She was caught previously and let off with a warning.

[@kimberlygarrett1485]

@@donaldsquires2674 Who would know ... her teammates . Random checks are done in most countries,don't pack items you shouldn't have.

[@LuiCypher]

@@oldschoolzone5711 the lies!!!

[@mov1ngforward]

Choices have consequences.

[@MTknitter22]

She is sure finding out what a great country she came from. She will probably be a better person for this. The arrogance is gone from her expression. Very very stupid thing to do.

[@sephiroth7818]

Why do we have to trade for her? She broke laws overseas. Y'all wouldn't try to get me out if I was in Brittany's shoes

[@KnowTheTruth33]

Facts.. matter fact we wouldn’t even know that you were in there…

[@stephendove7447]

@@KnowTheTruth33 big facts

[@richatlarge462]

@@stephendove7447 essential facts

[@pierrechareau9466]

You know it! ♟ in the making This isn’t over yet. Enjoy the “show” It’s all jive. An illusion But sad for her. Her suffering is real

[@karl5056]

Fact!

[@greenhornet5186]

Alan Braggs of NYC, Gascon of Los Angeles, Lightfoot of Chicago, etc, eliminated cash bail, and let criminals go free. It is not going to happen in Russia. She broke the law, and she needs to do the time.

[@evangelostzonis6383]

He needs..... hihoooo 😄😂😆😂😄

[@How2BAMan]

Why are you saying that people DON'T want her to stay in a Russian cell? Most Americans DO !!!

[@jimmygmc6917]

LOOK at our streets in the US we need stricter LAWS HERE!!

[@emiboot8153]

I’m glad there’s a country that doesn’t discriminate if you’re a celebrity or not… you get what you get.

[@TheNewsInASL]

Emi Boot ce·leb·ri·ty - a famous person. A WNBA player is not exactly a celebrity, based on the definition of the word. How many people had even heard of Brittney Griner before she was detained for taking drugs into Russia and the media made it sound as if her detention was illegal?

[@brazillianguy01]

Ur serious right? You don’t think that Russia in Ukraine where the US and it’s Allie’s are supplying weapons didn’t influence that decision? In a country who has rigged elections so that Putin could be in power essentially forever… ok ur right just pure justice where there is right and wrong 😳

[@mikedemirdjian9976]

@@TheNewsInASL She's famous.

[@sarahkanto1883]

@@mikedemirdjian9976 Only because idiots idolize others

[@mnmtwo]

hopefully america follows their lead and puts the orange clown in with his posse as well

[@afk4lfe822]

According to Griner she's happier in Russia anyway 🤷‍♂️

[@1940limited]

OK. Stay there honey. One less America hater we have over here.

[@Icatt.926]

I know right? What a clown?

[@juombe]

Yeah she was playing over there where she made 1 million a year.

[@brentjames9697]

Vacation

[@ronviens7040]

Telling the BS story to the Russians about 'not knowing' she had cannabis oil should be good reason to "lock her up!"

[@summer_mist4980]

Look at it this way, 9 1/2 years to be drug-free, learn a new language, and possibly even rediscover an appreciation for this nation and its flag...

[@jefftrotter5802]

Travel to other countries on your own risk. U.S. should not help.

[@iamhereblossom1588]

Not just travel, travel with drugs and break their laws and you're on your own.

[@trekgirl65]

Yeah cause she was warned about the drug laws there.

[@1940limited]

Especially one like Russia!

[@TheArtofFugue]

let me say, that if any one of us were in this situation (arrested in russia on drug charges) we would have little hope that our president would go out of the way to “prisoner swap” for our freedom, or at least to do the time in america. crazy how some people think they’re above others. especially when it really comes down to it. i’ve been behind bars in russia as a youth. i’m sure this will set her straight, after a few years in.

[@joemanuel1199]

You weren’t in no Russian prison …liar

[@PrivateMcPrivate]

@@joemanuel1199 nah dude your the liar

[@graysheep47]

Let her rot in that prison, she knew the law, just because she’s a woman who throw a ball, she’s not excused, she’s a fukn🤡

[@dboi4952]

She's 7 feet tall and has bass in her voice, she's gonna be running the yard...

[@croaker9260]

STFU , how about you show a little sympathy for her having to deal with this BS Russian case!

[@johnchan9327]

Don’t committed a crime, Black Live is not Matter overseas. Law and Order in Russia

[@upinsmoke2897]

"The American media's and WNBA's constant coverage hasn't helped and has made this case more prolific and more valuable in the eyes of the Russians to get more in return for a potential swap." CNN: "Thank you for that input, back to our 24/7 coverage of Brittney Griner's false imprisonment in Russia, Russia, Russia."

[@westfield90]

Just because we have chosen not to enforce our laws which has created massive lawlessness, doesn’t mean other nations shouldn’t enforce their laws.

[@erostone2266]

Lmaoo, their average sentence for possession of weed up to 6 grams which she only had trace amounts of is 15 days.

[@zzeus43]

@@erostone2266 with all respect we know why she got what she got. Relations between the Russians and the US are not good.

[@mojomaxy]

land of the free is where I wanna be.

[@belinalug6928]

This is knit picking

[@zzeus43]

@@belinalug6928 probably so but Griner could have made better choices like not taking illegal drugs to an international Airport

[@jessewynn820]

Good, now leave her there to do her time. She hates this country so much, let her learn what the others are like.

[@birdseyeview1812]

She never said that , where do y’all get y’all information from? she already said she was guilty multiple times

[@guyverGODZILLAheiseiERA]

YOUR TERRORIST ORANGE would like a word

[@Misshighness444]

@@birdseyeview1812 their fake news channel 🤣🤣 Fox News

[@clublibbylu]

We know how much republicans love eating up that fake information!

[@birdseyeview1812]

@@Misshighness444 it’s so crazy , she literally says she did it multiple times and everyone in the comments makes up their own little story . this is why people in other countries laugh at us now

[@mauriceortiz8817]

We should kick out a whole slew of rude and entitled racist Russians living in Hollywood, CA. I no longer open doors ( after 30 years of doing so) for these people anymore because they have no concept of courtesy. And I often let them know why.

[@nobodyspecial891]

black and gay the democraps will do anything to get her back🤦‍♂️

[@stephenkiefer137]

When you're busted for drugs over there, you're in for the hassle of your life!!!!!

[@halcyon6098]

drugs anywhere. some Asian countrys will just chop off ur hands or kll you outright

[@joeylove5428]

America needs to be this way

[@ahjaanhugh]

Marc Fogel as an example

[@ems3832]

@@joeylove5428 AMEN, Joey!

[@joeylove5428]

@Zed Bell I love America. I’ve went to iraq and fought for this country, can you say the same?

[@pgaven9396]

There should be NO SWAP...that's just insane if they do that...it's an outrage.

[@videosurfah]

But what if it were you?

[@YourPlug1]

@@videosurfah he’d be getting his back blown out in his cell

[@LittleRayOfSnshine69]

@Lo Pan not everyone is as stupid as Griner. Wouldn't happen to me.

[@RyanTaylor1223]

@@videosurfah Nobody would even know

[@mysticmarble94]

9 years for having less than 1 gram of cannabis oil is an absolutely barbaric sentence. It perfectly fits the current Russian ideology !

[@Kenwood1990]

She is a criminal don’t bring drugs to Russia.

[@TaurusGX49MM]

She shouldn’t have went there anyway….taxpayers should not have to pay her way out

[@noahalan8353]

We have veterans sitting in prison because of marijuana charges but we are trying to trade a war criminal for 1 basketball player?! It’s disgusting.

[@Greeneggsandham123]

She did bring home gold in the Olympics for the US. Veterans shouldn’t be in prison for pot either.

[@puppiepoppy]

1 stupid basketball player, to be precise.

[@RAFCMC702]

So because veterans are wrongfully imprisoned for marijuana that means that Brittney should be also?? What a dumb way of thinking. People with marijuana charges should be released here in the U.S. and so should Griner in Russia!

[@Tina-eb1hz]

So then lets fight to have them released.. AND BG! And are you living under a rock? When is the last time in the past 15 years we had an attack that wasnt domestic??? Ill wait..

[@joeballzee2767]

@@Greeneggsandham123 So they should let her go because she brought home the gold LOL

[@imfalks3667]

“No intent on breaking the law” she meant to say I wasn’t planning on getting busted.

[@jacquelineotto4148]

So ?? Always perfect.

[@richman8073]

Please shut up, its marijuana not a homicide

[@jonathanshumpert9549]

@@jacquelineotto4148 Not always perfect, but smart enough not to do drugs or take them to Russia.

[@ems3832]

@@jacquelineotto4148

[@sheddogs6153]

You do the crime you pay the time

[@TheSecurityCamChannel]

Not once did she/he apologized to the U.S. for her/his disrespectful behavior. I say let her/him rot.

[@troydorer1362]

Good job Russia.Do not exchange her for anybody.

[@wamacho]

Putting her case in the spotlight hasn't helped. It gave Russia a reason to hold on to her. It should be expected she would get a long sentence and make her a worthy bargaining chip.

[@goodvibes9050]

Totally agree with you 100%. The trade is never gonna happen under Biden term. They using this just for media.

[@markpennington9949]

She's not worthy at all. She got what she deserved.

[@wamacho]

@@markpennington9949 I understand she messed up but having Cannabis oil shouldn't put ones life on hold for 9years. She's just a pawn in the political game.

[@mljs_stv5664]

If you can’t release Americans in jail for weed, why trade for her?

[@Kenwood1990]

You can’t bring drugs to Russia.

[@robynharrison7631]

You have to be wise when you travel to other countries. We’re so spoiled in America- those who think otherwise can go elsewhere and see for themselves!! The laws we have here are unlike ANY where else. I thank God I live here- regardless of what faults we have have a nation.

[@RAFCMC702]

God Bless America! 🇺🇸 Despite her flaws she is truly the best country in the world ❤️

[@jimmymaximusace]

Also, Most countries hate, but respect America because of the power, wealth and influence Similar to a rich spoil kid that everyone in school wish to see fail

[@jacquelineotto4148]

Amen and amen. We need to be grateful as Americans. Let us unite and put our differences aside and pray for America everyday If not the enemies will use American to destroy America.

[@adanamaya2552]

Good.......

[@joeballzee2767]

Slap on the wrist in America 🥴

[@nickstoli]

If that's the law and she's guilty, why should she be exempt from punishment? Otto Warmbier stole a poster in North Korea and was sentenced to a prison camp. I agree that their crimes are trivial, but they aren't to Russians and North Koreans. And if you're in their country, follow their laws! I swear, when Americans get their passports, they really need to drill this into our heads. Buddy of mine went into this restricted area in China, fortunately he wasn't caught, but whatever thrills he got from that, they couldn't have been worth the risk. Unless years in a Chinese prison aren't as bad as they sound.

[@dejondabeast2]

I bet cannabis will be legal in Russia in the near future. This is ridiculous less than a gram come on.

[@mattrg320]

Hey Jay Quintana, thank you for sharing your story. I was just wondering which restricted area your friend entered, exactly. Haha. I was also wondering the full name of your friend, and what year this took place. Haha, just asking for a friend. Thanks!

[@elimanning6520]

@@dejondabeast2 stop your nonsense

[@austinflint8671]

@@mattrg320 xD and a photo ID right?

[@deebee4575]

@@dejondabeast2 Its still illegal in 14 of the United States.

[@ahjaanhugh]

I have a difficult time understanding how any reasonable person would accidently pack hash vaping sticks in their luggage. If she needed it for a medical condition, why did she not carry a doctor's certificate?

[@asdfbill8020]

According to the record Griner has an Arizona state medical Marijuana card which is not recognized in the Russian judicial system. Arizona state law is inapplicable in Russian criminal courts therefore nothing concerning the Arizona medical marijuana act was available as her defense..the Russian court did not err when Griners Arizona medical marijuana registry was not admitted into evidence. ..when every grower or customer was getting busted here in MT and being charged federally the fed categorically denied any state legal medical marijuana argument because cannabis products remain illegal at the federal level.

[@blunitesky123]

First off she had vape cartridges not 'sticks". Secondly cannabis is still federally illegal. Just going across state lines with it is a federal offense. Thirdly none of this matters in Russia or most other countries because it IS AGAINST THE LAW IN RUSSIA!!

[@carlv8168]

This wasn't Griner's first visit to Russia. She's been playing basketball over there for some time and should've done some research on their drug laws and criminal justice system over there before thinking that she could bring her medical marijuana over there, just because it's legal in Arizona. Kind of hard to feel sorry for her.

[@petedavidson6931]

¿ IF and that’s a BIG if, she was smart she could should have visited with NO drugs brought her Prescription Team Doctor en tow presented it to Immigration/Customs asking can I bring on next visit, but she knew dam straight it would be NO ! So she played dumbo!

[@Anonymous-dp5ib]

I don’t understand why Americans think they can bring drugs into other country’s especially (Russia that hates us) like we can do what we want and not expect consequences 🤦🏽‍♂️. Sadly she found out the hard way. Hopefully it’s a learning lesson to others before traveling to other countries…

[@DarkInsane22]

It’s called privilege that why they think they could get away with it

[@bonniesharky6738]

Not, not get your head straight. Russia doesn't hate. We hate them. They truly don't care about us, but won't let us smoke them neither.

[@OldSoulNewLife]

Russia doesnt hate you as much as China . Russia hates you because of the ignorance . No one is necessarily good, but Biden and the US government have been in bed with China for years

[@pattiehernandez769]

nope, she will play the innocent victim, write a book and have a film made about her hard childhood and how she overcame that, then became a political pawn in a racist society.

[@Sweetniques]

Shut up kid #freebrittneygriner she didn’t intent to break law was for chronic pain to treat injuries but you don’t understand that because your not a athlete packed in a hurry

[@rm8281]

Griner put herself in this situation. I don't believe we need to fix it for her.

[@Mike-fv6lj]

Who's we? What exactly would you be doing to fix it?

[@cjdawn2072]

Guilty means guilty, do your time and shut up. 9 years are not 90 years.

[@teressawilliams8679]

I feel sorry for her this is so upsetting to me. Looking at her I'm sure she has regrets. To read some of the hateful comments is a real wake up call. This unfortunately will not end with her, there will be another situation when someone else travel to Russia or any other country that does not care for American People we have news reporters traveling to different countries to report the news and for any reason might not be able to leave that country, this sentence will change a lot of people's mind when thinking about traveling to other countries

[@wendylm4770]

Why do you feel sorry for her? She broke their laws. It’s called accountability. In addition, She hates the USA and says she’s oppressed here. She should be happy there, right?

[@andrewlacerenza667]

Or travel to other countries but abide by their laws. Every time I travel to another country I always make sure to know and understand their laws even if I don't like them.

[@hateisforlosers6116]

Well Said !!!!! Facts100 The comments are disheartening. I have nieces her age who play basketball so she tugs at my heart !! I am remining prayerful !!!1

[@letsgetbrandon]

Your nuts. I wouldn't fear traveling to Russia. That POS had no respect for Russia and she had no respect for America.

[@williamstephens1850]

DONT FEEL SORRY FOR HER, she broke the law let her be , you do the crime ya do the time

[@adibabdullah6633]

She rolled the Dice and lost Game 😞🙄😒: Young Americans need to learn from this....

[@ExcellentByChoice]

Right! They need to learn to stay tf out of Russia

[@ODINS_daughter]

She has been to Russia many times to play basketball and knew the laws reguarding drugs of any kind in Russia. Just another case of a privileged person thinking they can get away with anything. She was not framed! This prisoner exchange sets a dangerous precedents.

[@thatbreadwinnerg9200]

Ur cold

[@benschlotte8242]

Why does she deserve privilege? Because she’s 1. Black 2. Lesbian 3. A wnba “star” …. Do the crime do the time. Trying to blame a covid fog for not checking her luggage… she knew exactly what she was doing. Now the drug addict can rot.

[@thuvlegend9097]

Omg its a thc pen. Her fault but practically a decade for that. Wow

[@JDM4EVR]

@@Jahodge81 not for no 15$ weed pen bro . They gave her more time than a child molester

[@brsu184]

It's no more dangerous and what just came out of your freaking mouth

[@dontcare9689]

I bet next time she'll stand for the national anthem. Let her sit there for the next 9 years & think about that.

[@Contact_Info]

In 2020, Griner protested the Star Spangled Banner and stated she would not be on the court while the national anthem was played during game openers...ok well have your residence in a country that is fitting for you, enjoy!

[@maxxcherry6955]

If they trade prisoners, Russia would definitely be getting the better end of the deal !

[@mamacindyrogofsky495]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Awesomekillezrs]

She can do her 9 years and be out, lets keep our comrade arms dealer.

[@brentjames9697]

Add trump supporters in That trade

[@BurnCrushExecute]

"and I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free.." 😭😭😭🤣🤣🤣

[@marquisearmstrong5941]

What

[@alphapred]

whatever...had she been in AmeriKKKa she'd still be arrested. Maybe killed

[@jantelliquawallace355]

Based

[@Misshighness444]

They’re are literally 10+ countries that are free and better than america!

[@muthrfuqrjonz3530]

And I’ll gladly die to give those freedoms to thee!

[@hevmadeit9354]

9 years for some weed that was only going to last you a week at best? That's crazy. I'm not saying she's innocent, but damnnnn...that's outlandish and unfair.

[@ElissaStark514]

I know! That was nothing. I'm furious and sick over this.

[@Rayallwayz]

I remember in 2011 I had a surgery. Ibwas prescribed hard pain killers. 7 days after my surgery I had to fly overseas. Eventhough I had the prescription bottle with my name on it. I could have taken it with me. I didn't want to take no chance. I took regular Tylenol with me.

[@eloinaseguro5230]

Unfortunately not everyone is bright enough as you are 👍

[@unclesamzbastardsonu.s.b.s9315]

9 years is harsh. I think 108 months would be a more fair sentence.

[@VijayThakurMD]

Hahahha

[@whoisbrucewayne17]

😂😂😂

[@ashleycruz904]

I agree. The time doesn’t match the crime. I mean yea it’s Russia’s rules but it doesn’t make it less extreme.

[@DoporaBHe6o]

6-7 years really as you can appeal for early release in russia (and it's nearly 100% guaranteed) Plus on the bright side she will probably learn Russian language during sentence + general prison for females in russia are pretty chill. I still feel sorry for her though. (as a Russian myself)

[@brentjames9697]

2031 flying cars when she get outta prison if she get out

[@jahman242]

Well when you take something illegal like weed oil in and out of foreign countries you need to expect to get caught and deal with the charges that come with. If this were a regular person that didn't have fame you wouldnt hear all this news. Youd be forgotten.

[@jayonkfire8541]

Straight faccz

[@jeremiah-hr7ik]

True she did it knowing she had it, how do you pack in such a hurry and not know you have this drug oil in your bag, being s superstar in a foreign country has no bearing on this when you are in a different country, they just prove NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW IN RUSSIA

[@ems3832]

@@jeremiah-hr7ik If only that were the case here in the U.S., too!

[@malaybuk6001]

That guy is staunchly anti american.why trade a criminal for another criminal.let her spend her next 9 years in a russian gulag. No help from america that he despise.his anti American rant are now rewarded in full by a 9 nine year free food and cell in a Siberian gulag.bless you more!!

[@johncampbell3735]

Best news I have heard all day. I'm going to start preparing for a party this weekend. I starting my brisket on the pit tomorrow.

[@doodelay]

no deal man she did a crime just let her do her time like anyone else, not negotiating anything

[@karenwinston4084]

What is wrong with you? This is a complete setup. Even if she did do it, 9 years for that? That is insane. I am sure you have done worse. Maybe someone should put you in jail for driving 2 miles over the speed limit. So you think if you go to a foreign country and "break" the law you should get 9 years in prison? No, your family would be crying to the State Department to help you.

[@maxinejimenez7188]

I was expecting more , not only 9 years...let her pay, she violated Russian law.. RESPECT RUSSIA OR ANY OTHER COUNTRY LAW...

[@bobthebuilder4683]

Trump would have freed her without a prisoner swap. Russia knows Biden is weak, but they wouldn’t try that with Trump.

[@ALISHISNOIUS]

@@karenwinston4084 she spoke daily about how Americans are bigots. She can rot in Russia have fun.

[@jamieknox1806]

@@karenwinston4084 ok she broke the law and now they are going to make an example out of her we do this all the time in America. Speeding and being in control of a controlled substance is on two different sides of the scale. It is illegal there it doesn't matter what our laws are. Maybe after this she will understand how good America was to her and how free she was. They should keep her

[@mirari_engaged]

From my understanding Brittany goes there on the off season of female basketball year after year. So she should have the knowledge of what she can and can not have in Russia. This is her fault for breaking the Russian law, this is all on her

[@ljswanson7440]

But she's a black female basketball player... J/k, totally agree.

[@wanakone33]

👍

[@mirari_engaged]

@@ljswanson7440 all I have to say is if it was a nobody like you or me this wouldn’t be all over the news and we’d be stuck with the 9 years. To top it off a trade for her for a Russian arms dealer is not a fair trade. Russia is just gonna have that guy go back to working like he did She just needs to stay there and do her time

[@emilytrevino4023]

@@mirari_engaged and for a country that’s so anti guns at the moment, it’s insane to even THINK about trading. It’s only gonna produce more illegal firearms lol. I’m so tired of the hypocrisy.

[@PrivateMcPrivate]

@@mirari_engaged agreed.

[@a8horizon]

I bet she has a new appreciation for the USA.

[@chevalss71]

A big F.U. to the media, for making it seem like she's a good person and didn't do anything wrong.. let her rot in jail!

[@antoniousbarnes5838]

IF THIS WAS ME OR YOU, JUST A REGULAR PERSON WHO MADE THIS SAME MISTAKE, DO YOU THINK THE PRESIDENT WOULD HELP US? GTFOH, I SMOKE WEED BUT I AM NEVER GOING TO RUSSIA EVER

[@dingotookmybaby1204]

The arms dealer is disappointed

[@lousassoul7344]

no hes not..hes even happier...this is 1 year from the max sentence....this improves his chances...

[@pah6539]

Disappointed? The arms dealer knows his time is short in being released from prison after this verdict, so he’s happy 😃. I believe NO deal should be made but unfortunately Biden is a WEAK President. Biden doesn’t care about national security which is clearly evident by negotiating the release of a dangerous criminal for a damn basketball player - you can’t make this sh*t up

[@paulasplace]

WELL, GOOD THING THE SHE/HE ISN'T FAT...HEARD it WOULD B EATIN STRAIGHT AWAY OVER THERE! THEY DON'T LIKE HE/SHES MUCH...SO THEY EAT THEM, OR SO I AM TOLD!!🤣😅😆

[@johno1544]

More likely they will make the trade now. If it was just 1 or 2 years it would be less likely.

[@pah6539]

@@johno1544 I think any amount of time Grinder received, Biden would’ve caved and made the deal

[@barbarafogle3541]

9 years for 30 dollars of dope.

[@joeciambella4092]

She definitely deserves everything coming to her..its that simple DONT STEAL

[@bettyhein5784]

Everything & more that is coming to her!

[@garlicknot887]

Play stupid games win stupid prizes

[@erastuserazade9785]

Griner earned her prize.

[@brentjames9697]

Dumbest decision she ever made

[@offroad5798]

People need to quit saying she made a mistake. She didn't make a mistake, she made a horrible decision. Huge difference.

[@nobodyspecial891]

Yes she's definitely very ignorant and privileged the arrogances is out of this world but she's paying for it now though 🤷‍♂️

[@asanta2023]

Same thing, she made a mistake. Geez..,can happen to a n y o n e.

[@madmaximilian5783]

@LASTDAYZ SAINT it looks like Britney has made a lot of bad choices in her life, and now she's paying the price. 🤔

[@duaneacarterii]

Right

[@battalionbricks]

She needs to stay there

[@KenTheCurator]

a lot of people here in the US are locked up for weed and it's 98% legal, think we should free them first

[@mmanacguy]

9 years for less then a gram of THC oil. Crazy

[@albertbarie5305]

So nobody told her the "I'm rich so the rules don't apply to me" defense only works in the USA.

[@Fermion.]

Don't Russian prisoners still have to stand at attention every morning for the Russian National Anthem? Somehow, I don't think she'll be taking a knee during their anthem.

[@goodguy...badrep.]

Did she before?

[@MrMgakaf]

Russia your heroes 😂

[@Susan-vl8ts]

It's an interesting thing - something called karma. Do not disrespect your country and sit in a locker room during our National Anthem because Brittany, we are the greatest country in the world.

[@sarahkanto1883]

She might take a knee to do other things

[@kog1540]

😂

[@fuziontonygaming]

I think this is the same lesson A$AP Rocky learned while in Sweden and other rappers too that think the U.S. is the only country in the world.

[@theilluminati4406]

If they do a deal for her they better do a deal for all the other people with weed offenses in the US.

[@americanborn3151]

I'm sure her only regret is getting caught. Trading an arms dealer is way way to steep. This guy has the blood of thousands of people on his hands. A pot smoking basketball player is not a fair trade for all those lives. Good for Russian not having a multi tier justice system

[@mtaylor7307]

Agreed the trade attempt was ridiculous. Russian doesn't give a frick about any individual people and the US gov should know this.

[@leahsodyssey123]

It's medical.

[@nobodyspecial891]

Dont trade it for anyone leave that thing over there.

[@tbj1315]

She was not smoking pot. She is 7ft tall. People like thank have painful growth pains. My son is 7ft and it's a genetic disorder that causes joint pains. She received a cannabis oil prescription from her doctor. She has less than the weight of 1 raisin or 1 paper clip. They charged her as if she had enough drugs to distribute and sell. Putin did it to get his murderous spy out in the USA.

[@kennethdavis6506]

What’s going to be the trade with God , When America has to stand judgment for all she has done . Just like she getting her retribution so will America . America is a great country “ Fact “ . God is a just God . Take it are leave it America is under divine judgment as we speak

[@johnel-amin4095]

Wow! Americans really hate each other. I hearing folks make mockery of this ball player for her political statements and hearing swapping a ball player for an arms dealer and making excuses for transporting narcotics. All sounds crazy, hateful and spiteful.

[@mematoseven8709]

An American stands when our national anthem is played. I wouldn't call him/her an American

[@therundown1508]

If that where you or any of us we would have to serve our time why should celebrity’s and athlete’s get special treatment for knowingly breaking the law?

[@Alex-xh5zw]

She’s the American hating Americans. Kneels for her own anthem, demonizes people for politics, then expects her country and people to rescue her when she does a crime. “They didn’t read me my rights🥺” - What rights? Your American ones?? In RUSSIA??? Keep her there.

[@johnel-amin4095]

@@mematoseven8709 Hmmm, Jesse Owens , Jackie Robinson , Hank Aaron, Wilma Rudolph and Cassius Clay stood when the US anthem was played and you still called them “ n****r”, didn’t you? I’ve never followed this ball player, don’t know much about her but some of you Americans seem happy for her sentence. Black boys killed for you in Vietnam , Korea, Afghanistan and Iraq and you still called them “ n****r, didn’t you? Bill Melendez, fromDetroit said he liked beating and killing “sand n*****s “ in Iraq , just like he enjoyed beating and killing “ n*****s” in Detroit, you heard him , didn’t you? As I said, Americans really hate each other.

[@TBRIDGES33]

It’s disgusting really

[@chriscalderin6677]

She is not worth any trade we all know it

[@PKCP60]

Say no to drugs. BLM is not in Russia.

[@lt35phila]

Do the crime do the time. Swap a drug user for an arms dealer? Ridiculous

[@DisasterTheoryX]

How Christian of you.

[@deepconcealmentholsters783]

It’s amazing when people bring drugs into our country we lock them up my girlfriends father had 25 years for being forced to bring drugs in from Columbia. But we sit there and because Britney Griner is a superstar we think she should have leniency she’s not above the law

[@Crimson-Ox]

A superstar where? She’s not special and should do the time for the crime

[@RioCrypto55]

I wouldn't call her super

[@87clits]

Superstar? I didn't even know who she was.

[@arthurmorgan42069]

It's spelled Colombia 🇨🇴.

[@MrSturdystratus]

She ain’t even a superstar half these people had no idea who she was before all this oress

[@PeAtway]

The charge in Russia for possessing anywhere between 6 to 20 grams of cannabis is normally a small fine, no jail time. Britney was sentenced to 9.5 years for possessing 0.7 grams of cannabis oil. Based on information from the internet, it takes approximately 7 grams of cannabis flower to produce 1 gram of Cannabis Oil (CO). Therefore, 0.7 grams of CO is equivalent to 4.9 grams of cannabis (7 x 0.7). Why are so many viewers OK with her sentence?

[@mojomaxy]

imo some commenters seem a bit envious of the success she had and then carelessly destroyed. She was successful because she trained and worked for it. Even if Gainer disrespected living in US and was unpatriotic SO What Many people have different views. So many judging her actions 9 yrs of pain and suffering Geez give her a break!

[@Don49919]

In 2020, Griner protested the Star Spangled Banner and stated she would not be on the court while the national anthem was played during game openers.

[@brentjames9697]

2031 she'll be a Russian woman

[@joeldriver3971]

For anybody unaware of who she is look up some of the idiotic things she has said about our great country. I feel zero sympathy for her. Maybe America won't look so bad after a few years in a Russian prison.

[@goldenstate66]

She wasn't sentenced for criticizing the U.S. If you want people imprisoned for criticizing their government, you should move to Russia, China or North Korea.

[@vectoraerialimaging774]

100% AGREE!...She stated “I honestly feel we should not play the national anthem during our season" - I wonder if she stood for the Russian anthem? Now we're supposed to release a Russian arms trafficker for her stupid mistake?

[@jamie5397]

I cant stand her the NBA or WNBA but i feel sorry for her. Shes an entitled idiot but 9 years in a Russian jail? If this happened a year or two years earlier, no way she would get the same sentence. I cant stand her but I do feel sorry for her.

[@sensenisok]

Smart !!

[@Tina-eb1hz]

@@goldenstate66 EXACTLY RIGHT! Everyone is trying to find reasons as to why her sentencing is adequate so that they have an excuse NOT TO CARE. This is cruel and unusual punishment for CBD OIL! These people are lame AF

[@swflfishing2902]

Imagine being so privileged, that you’re shocked when you’re arrested for smuggling drugs into a foreign country.

[@HighPriestess1010Empress]

Smuggling drugs lmao. Were you trying to use hyperbole? She had a vape pen. This has nothing to do with drugs and everything to do with America’s interference with Ukraine. We’re not all naive sheep but I guess some of us are willfully ignorant.

[@neilburgess627]

Smuggling drugs? LOL she got caught with some personal weed

[@sarahkanto1883]

Yeah, what about the cia smuggling drugs

[@michaelb7163]

Personal weed is drugs duh wtf is wrong with this generation and stupid comments. I would be an idiot to travel around the world with vape pens. Same goes for LGBT don't travel you will end up dead for your bs but for some reason we don't use our brains and these things are repetitive

[@rogerbing5314]

@@neilburgess627 and it’s illegal in Russia . Hopefully the pig serves her sentence.

[@darkcrystal9304]

Is it just me or does Britney Griner seem like a man?

[@unclemayhem6696]

It looks like her “wife” is gonna to have to find a new meal ticket.