Russian law expert says former WNBA champion Brittney Griner could face up to 5 years in a Russian labor camp

One scary and ongoing story in the world is that of WNBA star Brittney Griner’s detainment in Russia.

In February, Griner was taken into custody by Russian officials after she allegedly attempted to smuggle vape cartridges containing hashish oil into the country.

Many now believe that Griner is being used as something of a bargaining chip as the United States and the rest of the Western world puts major pressure on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine.

Griner could be facing serious time in Russia for the alleged crime, and one legal expert believes that she could face up to five years in a Russian labor camp.

“You’re talking about five years, not jail time, but a labor camp,” Russian law expert Peter Maggs told Fox News. “One thing I find a little worrisome is this extension of her preliminary holding from two months to three months, because you have to go to a higher authority to get it lengthened.”

This is a very scary time for Griner and her loved ones. As the war in Ukraine rages on, it stands to reason that Russia will continue to try to use any leverage it can to avoid further sanctions.

An official from the US embassy in Moscow reportedly found Griner to be in “good condition” after they were granted consular access to the 31-year-old.

Griner is a seven-time WNBA All-Star and has averaged 17.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per game on 56.0 percent shooting from the field throughout her career. She was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury with the first overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft.

This is an ongoing story, of course. Hopefully, it is one that has a happy ending.