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A Russian Court has extended the detention of WNBA Star Brittney Griner.
Griner was taken into custody at the Sheremetyevo International Airport in Russia on February 17th after officials allegedly found vape cartridges filled with hashish oil in her bag.
Hashish oil is illegal in Russia.
According to Russian Media TASS, Griner's detention was extended at least through July 2nd. Her incarceration was extended 18 days, citing "the request of investigation" by officials.
As of writing, Griner has been held in a Russian prison for over three months. According to the NY Times, Griner was charged with "large-scale transportation of drugs" and is facing up to ten years in prison, if she is convicted.
The United States Government said on May 3rd that Griner was "wrongfully detained" in Russia. This potentially means that the US Government will negotiate to get her released.
Ned Price, a State Department Spokesperson said:
“I’ve seen the reports emanate from Russia that her detention has been extended. Our position for some time on this has been very clear: Brittney Griner should not be detained.”
We will have to wait until July 2nd to see what the future holds for Griner.