Bakersfield man on trial in Russia faces up to 13 years if convicted
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — A Bakersfield native being tried in a Russian court following his arrest on drug charges in June 2023, is expected to learn his fate Thursday.
On Monday, a Moscow judge declared the trail for Michael Travis Leake, 52, complete. Leake’s mother, Glenda Garcia of Bakersfield, told 17 News the prosecution is asking for 13 years if convicted.
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But Leake’s attorney is aiming for him to be exonerated.
If found guilty, Leake’s attorney told Garcia, he believes a 10 year sentence is more likely, with half that time actually being served.
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Leake has lived in Russia for more than ten years. He has been working as an English teacher and as a musician and manager in the rock scene.
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