Britney Greener’s pre-trial detention was extended by 18 days on Tuesday, leaving her in Russian custody until at least July 2, the state news agency The New York Times reported.
This is the third time that the preliminary arrest of the Phoenix Mercury star has been extended by a Moscow court, something that is reportedly typical of Russia. This latest extension was granted at the request of investigators, according to the report.
Greener was arrested on February 17th after officials claimed to have found hashish oil vape cartridges in her luggage at Moscow airport. She faces up to 10 years in prison.
Since then, the State Department has classified Griner as an illegally detained citizen and there is widespread speculation that she was used as a political pawn amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Greener was arrested just before the Russian invasion, but news of her arrest was announced only after that.
Russia has reportedly proposed a deal to release Grener in exchange for the notorious arms dealer Victor Booth, who earned the nickname “Death Dealer.”
Greenner has been largely isolated since she was arrested more than 115 days ago, although she has been able to respond to certain emails from WNBA players and others through a special account set up by her agent. The State Department actually met with Mercury on Monday before their Washington game against the Mystics.
“It was great to hear from the State Department that we need to keep strengthening this message and that we need to keep pushing everyone who has some influence or power to help bring BG back home … She’s our teammate, she is American and we want her back home, “said Phoenix coach Vanessa Nigor.
Britney Greener will be in Russian custody until at least July 2. (Tim Clayton / Corbis via Getty Images)
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