Deputy Anatoliy Melashchenko detained over attempted bribery

Anatoliy Melashchenko, a deputy of the Zhytomyr Regional Council, found himself at the centre of a scandal after being detained during the handover of a $10,000 bribe. 

According to the investigation, he promised to help a man secure a competitive position in one of the state structures, leveraging his connections among senior officials and law enforcement agencies.

Attempted manipulation: connections with influential figures

Melashchenko, who serves on the Regional Council's standing committee on ecology and the use of natural resources, met with a potential client in March 2025. He assured the man that he had direct contacts with influential figures in the government and law enforcement agencies, which would guarantee a successful passage of the competition and the acquisition of the position.

Detention: the fact of the bribe handover

On 3 April, the deputy was detained while receiving the full sum of $10,000. Law enforcement officers documented the transfer of funds, which established the fact of the corrupt deal.

Criminal case: fraud charges

Anatoliy Melashchenko is charged with fraud under Part 4 of Article 190 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. This article provides for severe sanctions, including imprisonment for a term of five to 12 years, potentially accompanied by a ban on holding certain positions.