Charges Leveled Against 'Arsen Yerevanski' and 11 Others

The investigation by the Special Investigation Department of the RA Investigative Committee into the criminal case concerning the highest hierarchical status in organized crime, namely, the 'thief in law' status, has concluded.

According to the information provided by the Investigative Committee's Department of Information and Public Relations, the investigation concerns instances where individuals with high criminal status, such as 'Ded Hasan' and 'Kondo Mayis', facilitated Arsen Mkrtchyan's rise to fame as a 'thief in law,' thus acquiring the status of 'Arsen Yerevanski' or 'Arsenchik.' This status associates him with a criminal subculture characterized by hierarchical relationships and normative behaviors set outside state-imposed legal frameworks.

The purpose of such organizations often includes committing crimes, providing protection for criminal acts, or involving other individuals in illegal activities. They also utilize violence, threats, coercion, or other illegal measures to resolve disputes related to public or private matters or to gain illicit benefits.

As of February 22, 2020, 'Arsen Yerevanski' maintained his status and led a criminal group that aimed to execute operations in furtherance of its objectives, including using his illegal influence to resolve disputes and obtain illegal advantages.

Furthermore, various individuals participating in this group acted upon instructions from 'Arsen Yerevanski' and were involved in the group's objectives.

Based on the collected evidence, 'Arsen Yerevanski' has been charged under Article 223.2, Part 2, Clause 5 of the RA Criminal Code, one group member under Article 223.2, Part 3, Clause 5, six individuals under Article 223.3, Part 1, three individuals under Article 223.4, Part 1, and another individual under Article 223.3, Part 3, Clause 2.

The investigation has now concluded, and the criminal case has been forwarded to the prosecutor responsible for overseeing the legality of the pre-trial proceedings.

Notice: A suspect or accused individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in accordance with the procedure established by the RA Criminal Procedure Code, and a legal judgment has entered into force.