Authorities in the Krasnodar Territory have charged a 33-year-old mother with homicide by negligence in connection with the death of her infant. She is the wife of a blogger named Maxim Lyuty, who has publicly promoted a raw-food lifestyle and a dietary approach described as prano. Investigators say the family attempted to sustain themselves without conventional nutrition by relying on sunlight and a strict, food- and water-free regimen.
The charge falls under part 1 of article 109 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, with a maximum penalty of two years in prison if convicted. The case centers on the mother allegedly depriving the child of necessary medical care and nutrition. According to an official message released via the Telegram channel of the Investigative Committee of Russia, the woman and her child were living in a rented house in the village of Vardan with her partner and their son. The child was born at home on February 11, 2023, without qualified medical assistance, a detail highlighted by investigators as part of the inquiry.
Officials noted that the family did not register the child with a health institution, which hindered early medical examinations that are often critical for diagnosing, preventing, and treating illnesses. Investigators say that as the baby’s health deteriorated and the child refused food for an extended period, the couple opted to seek hospital care on March 8. Tragically, the child died before arrival, according to current findings.
Subsequent updates from the Sochi Lazarevsky District Court indicated that the mother was placed under house arrest for two months, with a series of prohibitions and restrictions imposed while the case continues. The investigation into the alleged crime of causing death by neglect remains ongoing, and the 33-year-old mother remains in custody as proceedings proceed.
Media coverage has suggested various theories about the child’s death, including pneumonia and general weakness. A Telegram channel associated with Kub Mash reported that the boy’s condition began to worsen during a journey from St. Petersburg to Sochi. It also noted that after the child’s death, the mother sought medical examination and was discharged shortly thereafter. On March 15, Kub Mash disclosed that the blogger, identified as the child’s father, had been detained for 10 days, with investigators reporting an attempt to leave the company vehicle as part of the incident.
On social media, Lyuty has been noted for promoting a lifestyle centered on solar nutrition and the rejection of animal products and heat-treated foods. Reports indicate that the couple may have undernourished their child in an effort to instill their dietary philosophy. The child reportedly refused breastfeeding, and one account attributed the child’s statement to a belief in prano philosophy, though witnesses emphasized it was a sign of the infant’s distress rather than a conscious choice.
People familiar with the family described Lyuty as presenting himself with a sense of authority that some observers found troubling. A friend who spoke to the press described the blogger as imposing and controlling, while acknowledging that others participated in the couple’s program and benefited from it, at least in terms of weight loss and the experience of guided wellness activities such as yoga and group discussions. Critics have labeled Lyuty’s behavior as abusive and psychopathic by some accounts, noting alleged harsh treatment of women involved in the programs and a pattern of controlling conduct observed by several participants.
Coverage also touched on the wife’s stance toward traditional gender roles. Reports from individuals connected to the family suggested she appeared to accept the premise that women could be encouraged to abandon conventional expectations about dress, cosmetics, and independence. The broader discussion highlights the tension between unconventional wellness movements and the safeguarding of child welfare, with investigators and medical professionals emphasizing the need for early medical intervention and regular health assessments in infancy.
The blogger reportedly led courses on his social platforms, offering what he described as a body-cleansing program and a raw-food regimen. Attendance varied, with some groups consisting of 15 to 20 participants who took part in yoga sessions and continuous dietary supervision during the events. This program attracted participants who reported notable weight changes and an interest in alternative health approaches, attracting a mix of supporters and critics alike.
While some supporters spoke glowingly of the program, others described a more troubling dynamic. Observers and former participants recalled difficult interactions, describing the leadership as domineering and, in some cases, emotionally charged. The accounts portray a person who could be admired by followers for his resolve and discipline, yet polarizing to many others who witnessed more severe affectations and a tendency toward controlling behavior within the group.
Ultimately, the case raises questions about parental responsibility, the influence of wellness communities on families, and the importance of timely medical care for infants. As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on determining the exact circumstances that contributed to the child’s death and on ensuring that the appropriate legal remedies are pursued in accordance with the law.