Brittney Griner Sentenced To 9 Years In Prison, Fined For Smuggling Drugs

The nine-year sentence was close to the maximum sentencing and the requested time by prosecutors, who asked for 9.5 years in their closing arguments, CNN reports.

The verdict and sentencing will add pressure on the Biden administration, which previously offered a prisoner exchange deal, as Blavity previously reported.

According to the Post, Griner’s freedom now depends on Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will make the final decision on the administration’s offer.