Polish priest Michał Olszewski, accused in a Justice Fund investigation, claims he suffers from PTSD and is being harassed by authorities.
Priest Declines to Give Explanations at Court Hearing
On Tuesday, February 10, a hearing was held at the District Court in Warsaw regarding the Justice Fund affair. Priest Michał Olszewski is accused of participating in an organized criminal group, acting to the detriment of the State Treasury, and money laundering. The priest did not admit to the charges and refused to give explanations, instead providing a statement with the reasons for his decision.
Olszewski Claims PTSD and Harassment by ABW
The first reason for refusing to give explanations, according to the priest, is his health. He claims he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder due to his detention and inhumane treatment, which was confirmed by the Ombudsman. Olszewski stated that since his detention, he has been harassed by authorities, including the ABW, and that his family has also been targeted.
Priest Claims Abuse by Prosecutor
Olszewski also doubts whether the court can fairly consider his case and claims he was a victim of repression by investigators, particularly prosecutor Piotr Woźniak. He described being brought to a small room with a prison cage by ABW officers at the prosecutor’s office, where Woźniak allegedly mocked him, saying he would “ensure all comforts” in prison after his conviction.
Justice Fund Investigation Involves 100 Million PLN
The case concerns irregularities in the disbursement of funds from the Justice Fund during Zbigniew Ziobro’s tenure as Minister of Justice. The Profeto Foundation, led by Olszewski at the time, was to receive approximately 100 million PLN in grants during the PiS government. The investigation includes Ziobro, who has obtained political asylum in Hungary.
