The number of victims has risen significantly: charges have been re-filed against Nazarii Gusakov, who suffers from SMA
25 March 14:16
A Lviv resident suspected of fraudulently raising funds ostensibly for SMA treatment has returned to Ukraine from Italy and faces new charges.
This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian", citing Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko.
More victims and a higher amount
The legal classification of the actions remains unchanged, but the investigation has identified new victims. The number of victims has risen from 34 to 96, and the amount of damages from 1.3 million hryvnias to 2 million hryvnias.
How Nazarii Gusakov operated
The man organized a fundraiser on social media and Telegram channels. He claimed there was an alleged critical need for an expensive medication to treat SMA.
However, according to the Lviv City Council, he had been receiving this medication for free since June 2024—at the expense of the local budget.
The campaign was promoted with the support of well-known media figures and influencers. Funds were collected via PayPal and BuyMeACoffee.
How the funds were spent
The investigation established that the money raised may not have gone toward treatment. Possible expenses include gambling, investments in cryptocurrency, and personal needs.
During searches, a cell phone and flash drives were seized. Their examination is ongoing.
A motion for 24-hour house arrest has already been filed with the court. Under the terms of the preventive measure, the man will be allowed to leave his residence only to receive medical care or to go to a shelter during an air raid alert.
The scandal surrounding Nazarii Gusakov erupted after he refused to publicly account for the donations he had received.
Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi confirmed that the city is providing him with the medication free of charge.
