Ryszard S., the brother of PiS MP Jarosław Sellin, was released from detention after nearly 14 months. He and his family maintain his innocence, insisting that an independent court will clear him of the corruption allegations.
Detention of Ryszard S.
Ryszard S., brother of former PiS Deputy Cultural Minister and former general conservator of monuments Jarosław Sellin, was one of seven people arrested in June of last year by the General Prosecutor’s Office. The detainees were accused of leveraging influence, passive paid protection, and accepting promises of financial benefit. Temporary arrest was applied only to Ryszard S.
Charges Against Ryszard S.
According to the investigation, Ryszard S. acted as an intermediary for the illegal influence on decisions and actions of the Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage – the General Conservator – in exchange for promised financial benefits and free hotel accommodation. The prosecutors also alleged that, in cooperation with Maciej K., he accepted financial benefit in return for assistance in obtaining a targeted grant under the 2023 Cultural Heritage Protection Program.
Brother of Former Deputy Minister Leaves Prison
The brother of the arrested man, Jarosław Sellin, has long campaigned for Ryszard S.’s release and collected signatures on an online petition. Ultimately, the MP announced that Ryszard had exited custody after almost 14 months. In a statement, Sellin said the decision was a result of the prosecutor’s action and expressed confidence in his brother’s innocence, stating that an independent court will clear him of all charges. He also emphasized that prolonged detention during an investigation is unacceptable and suggested that Ryszard was kept in custody merely because of his closeness to PiS.
