Vadim Vassilenko Started a Hunger Strike

Online, September 25, 2011 (Newswire.com) - A Ukrainian businessman Vadim Vassilenko, 44, who was arrested in New York City on February 15th 2006 on business-related allegations, started a hunger strike on September 20th, 2011, protesting his very long pre-trial detention.

"Last time I was brought to court September 13th 2011, the judge did not even call me to the court room and rescheduled my next hearing for December 14th". - Vassilenko says.

"I will continue my hunger strike until I will be heard by someone who believes in the United States Constitution. No one should be deprived liberty that long between his/her arrest and trial. Someone stand up for me". - Vassilenko says.

The New York Post and The New York Times have written about Vassilenko's case. A Davidzon-Radio criminal reporter Alexandre Grant put Mr. Vassilenko on the air several times where Vassilenko said that he will plea guilty only if he'll be deported to his native Ukraine.

On the 5th day of his hunger strike Vadim left a voicemail message about his condition.

"Hello everyone!
This is Vadim Vassilenko calling from the Manhattan Detention Complex located at 125 White street New York NY 10013. Today is the 5th day of my hunger strike. I'm protesting against my 68 month pre-trial detention. Today I only consumed one piece of sugar with water. I don't feel much hunger like I did in my first day. I looked at my hands today this morning and they've become slimmer as well as my face. My reflexes are slow and my feet are cold and I put three socks on each foot. No response from the Department of Correction yet. Everybody knows what is happening and no one taking any position on the situation. I'm determined to continue my hunger strike as long as I can and I will be very thankful to anyone who would help me with publicity."