Filipavičius trial nears end as two women testify to being imprisoned in garages

The long-running case against Gediminas Filipavičius over alleged sexual crimes and unlawful detention of two women is approaching its final stage, with closing arguments set for April 10, state broadcaster LRT reports.

A court spokesperson confirmed that evidence and witness testimony were presented on Monday, including accounts from one of the victims. The next hearing will allow prosecutors, victims, and defence lawyers to deliver final statements before a verdict is reached.

Filipavičius stands accused of 12 offences—one classified as a misdemeanour, two as minor crimes, one as moderately severe, and eight as serious. If convicted on all charges, he faces up to seven years in prison under Lithuania’s Criminal Code. The two victims—a Lithuanian citizen and a Ukrainian national—allege they were held captive in garages in 2023.

Both women have filed civil claims of €15,000 and €25,000 respectively, which the court may award if Filipavičius is found guilty. He has partially admitted guilt but refused to testify further, stating, “I have already given my statements—they should be followed.”

The trial is being held behind closed doors. Filipavičius, currently serving a 20-year sentence for the 2023 abduction of a minor in Kaunas, is participating remotely from Šiauliai Prison. Investigators uncovered the crimes against the two adult women while probing the girl’s kidnapping. All three cases originated in Kaunas District.