Acquitted of rape on appeal, ex-Wah!Banana actor reflects on the 3 years lost behind bars
Former Wah!Banana actor Lev Panfilov has been fully acquitted of rape and sexual assault charges after spending three years in prison. The Court of Appeal overturned his conviction due to material inconsistencies in the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Why it matters
The case highlights significant flaws in the judicial process and the profound personal impact of wrongful imprisonment on the individual involved.
When he first heard about the rape investigation, Mr Lev Panfilov thought it would quickly blow over. Instead, he would take five years to prove his innocence, during which he spent a "dark" time in jail.
Russian actor and scriptwriter Lev Panfilov speaks to CNA about his ordeal after being accused of rape and how the entire process has changed him. (Photo: CNA/Syamil Sapari)
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