Bribery Demanded from Citizen at 'Avan' Mental Health Center; Criminal Case Initiated

A criminal case has been initiated regarding the alleged demand for a bribe from a citizen at the 'Avan' Mental Health Center, as well as the abuse of official powers and the commission of official forgery. This information has been provided by the Public Relations Department of the RA Prosecutor General's Office.

On March 8, 2019, a citizen reported to the Nor Nork police department of the RA Police that the head of the therapeutic department of the 'Avan' Mental Health Center asked him for 20,000 AMD in order to discharge his wife, who was receiving inpatient treatment at the center, and to provide a conclusion about her illness that would serve as a basis for obtaining disability status and free medication. However, due to not having that much money, he gave the head of the department 10,000 AMD.

During the preparation of materials, the citizen explained that in January 2019, due to his wife's deteriorating health, he had to transfer her to the 'Avan' Mental Health Center several times, but the head of the therapeutic department refused to admit her for inpatient treatment, claiming there were no free spaces in the center. However, he later determined that there were indeed free beds available during that time period.

Considering that evidence has been obtained regarding the alleged abuse of official powers, receipt of a bribe, giving a bribe, and official forgery, the prosecutor of the Avan and Nor Nork administrative districts of Yerevan has instituted a criminal case under parts 1 of Articles 308, 311, 312, and 314 of the RA Criminal Code to thoroughly, objectively, and comprehensively investigate the circumstances presented.