On March 3, 2025, the Savelovo Court sentenced Elena Blinovskaya to five years of imprisonment for tax evasion and money laundering, marking the culmination of her high-profile legal battle. The charges against her included evading taxes exceeding 918 million rubles, legalizing illicit funds, and engaging in illegal financial operations.
During the proceedings, defense attorney Andrey Konychev explained to MSK1.RU why the court decided on this specific penalty. The maximum possible punishment Blinovskaya faced on these charges could have reached 10.5 years. Konychev noted, "That penalty the court imposed is something extraordinary. I think they did it deliberately to keep the case visible — this is exemplary punishment." He highlighted how prosecutors typically request the maximum sentence, leaving it to the judge to find the middle ground considering both the defense and prosecution.
On February 27, 2025, the final hearing took place, where the defense made requests for delays related to her sentencing until her children turn 14, reflecting Blinovskaya's responsibilities as a mother. Konychev remarked, "Since they requested postponement, it indicates Blinovskaya acknowledged some responsibility for her actions, seeking minimal punishment rather than actual incarceration."
Following her time served of over 406 days, it was determined how her time would be calculated: one day in pre-trial detention equates to 1.5 days in criminal custody, whereas two days under house arrest count as one day. Taking this calculation methodology, she would potentially be released by February 2028 and could qualify for parole immediately thereafter.
Throughout this tumultuous period, reactions from her family have been significant. Nina Ostanina, Blinovskaya's mother, stated post-sentencing, "You just don’t get how they’ve torn apart my daughter’s name." This expresses the emotional toll and the public scrutiny surrounding the case. Blinovskaya's attorney, Natalia Salnikova, indicated it remains uncertain whether they will appeal the court's decision: “The tactics for our next steps will be informed next week,” she said, implying they are still contemplating their options.
Regarding the financial penalties, the court ruled to satisfy the prosecutor's claim, ordering Blinovskaya to reimburse 587 million rubles, along with her property being confiscated as part of the ruling, all set to benefit the state due to her evasion of tax liabilities.
Witness testimonies were also shared during the trial; Daria Bondarenko, former head of Blinovskaya's marathon organization, and SMM-manager Maria Zhitarieva provided insights about the operational practices surrounding Blinovskaya's business endeavors, reflecting on how educational services were offered online. The cases of these workers align with the allegations against Blinovskaya as the prosecution attempts to present detailed accounts of the alleged misconduct.
Though her legal battles attract much attention, Blinovskaya's personal narrative concerning motherhood and the impact of her conviction on her family remains central to public empathy. The legal ramifications are poised to resonate beyond just her case, hinting at broader potential repercussions for influencers and business owners maintaining taxable income streams.
Overall, this case raises pressing questions about accountability, the public's perception of wealth and influence, and how justice navigates the complex intersections of law, commerce, and personal responsibility. Blinovskaya’s future remains uncertain; as she grapples with her upcoming years behind bars, the public will continue to watch closely, pondering the current legal choices made and their implications for her family.