Griner admits drug allegations in Russia, but denies intent

Griner admits drug allegations in Russia, but denies intent.

Two-time US Olympic champion detained at Moscow airport.

American basketball star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to a drug charge in a Russian court on Thursday, but denied that she intentionally broke the law.

Griner admits drug allegations in Russia, but denies intent

Griner spoke at the second hearing of her trial on a drug-related charge that could sentence her to up to 10 years in prison, days after asking US President Joe Biden to secure her release.

“I would like to plead guilty. But there was no intention. I didn’t want to break the law,” Griner said, speaking quietly in English, which was then translated into Russian for the court.

“I would like to give my statement later. I need time to prepare,” she added.

The next hearing was scheduled for July 14.

Griner’s attorney, Alexander Boykov, told reporters they expected the lenient sentence possible.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist was detained in February at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport with cartridges for cannabis oil, which is illegal in Russia, and has been in custody ever since.

In a handwritten note, she appealed directly to Biden earlier this week to step up US efforts to get her home.

“I know you’re dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American detainees,” Griner wrote. “Please do everything you can to get us home.”

Biden spoke to Griner’s wife Wednesday, saying he was working to get her released “as quickly as possible,” the White House said.