Svedlovsk Court Jails Man 15 Years in 1992 Cold-Case Murders - The Moscow Times
Moscow Times
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Svedlovsk region court sentenced Viktor Petrichenko to nearly 15 years in prison for a brutal series of murders that occurred over three decades ago. The defendant was found guilty of killing seven people, including two children, in December 1992. Petrichenko lured his victims under the guise of celebrating New Year’s Eve together at an apartment in Kamensk-Uralsky. He added a sedative to drinks, rendering the adults unconscious before systematically attacking them with a metal hammer. The children, aged 12 and 13, were also killed during the same ordeal. Petrichenko stole a significant sum of money from his victims, equivalent to around $8.8 million today when adjusted for inflation.
The case remained unsolved for over three decades due to Petrichenko’s ability to evade authorities through what police described as a “vagrant lifestyle.” The investigation was reopened in 2024 after forensic experts identified him using advanced genetic and fingerprint tests. Petrichenko, who had been living in the Far East Amur region, was arrested in January 2025 and pleaded guilty to the charges during his trial.
This case highlights the challenges of solving cold-case crimes and the role of modern forensic techniques in bringing perpetrators to justice. It also underscores the lingering impact of violent crimes long after they occur. The sentencing of Petrichenko marks a significant milestone in a case that shocked the region when it first unfolded, offering closure to the victims’ families and a testament to the persistence of law enforcement.
The Moscow Times reported on this story as part of its ongoing efforts to provide independent journalism in Russia, despite facing increasing pressures from authorities. The article underscores the challenges faced by media organizations like The Moscow Times, which have been labeled “undesirable” by the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office. This
Verticals
worldrussia
Originally published on Moscow Times on 2/25/2026