Prosecutor seeks extension of Gaigalaitė’s detention in Panevėžys paramedic murder case

Prosecutors have requested an extension of pre-trial detention for Justina Gaigalaitė, the former wife of murdered paramedic Mantas Sadauskas, LRT reports.

Panevėžys District Court reviewed the request on Tuesday afternoon, with a decision expected the same day. Gaigalaitė participated in the hearing remotely.

Her lawyer, Vaidotas Sviderskis, told ELTA that Gaigalaitė has cooperated fully with investigators, providing detailed statements and explanations. She has requested that the court not impose the harshest preventive measure, which he described as a natural wish.

The prosecutor argues for extending detention on three grounds: risk of flight, potential to commit further crimes, and possible interference with the investigation. Sviderskis disputes these claims.

In April, prosecutors initially sought a three-month detention for Gaigalaitė, but the court granted only two months, which expires this weekend. She faces charges of murder and unlawful deprivation of liberty.

Two other suspects are linked to the case. Ilja Solkanas, father of another suspect, Vilius Solkanas, was released on a €5,000 bail, while Vilius Solkanas had his detention extended by three months on Monday.

Sadauskas’ body was found on April 21 on the grounds of a homestead in Panevėžys district, wrapped in a bouncy castle and buried. A weapon was discovered at the scene. Investigators believe the motive may be related to personal conflicts.