Valeria Chekalina, known online as Lerchek, a blogger, and her husband Artem are facing serious allegations related to money laundering on a substantial scale, according to reports from the Moscow prosecutor’s office via a Telegram channel. The information indicates that a restraining measure may be discussed soon, potentially restricting certain activities by the Chekalins while the case proceeds.
Earlier, a second criminal case involving the couple emerged after investigators resumed focus on their finances. Authorities allege that Valeria Chekalina and Artem Chekalin are connected to laundering a significant sum of money. The case centers on claims that funds obtained through criminal activity were legalized in April 2021, with prosecutors suggesting the couple benefited personally from these transactions. The specific preventive measure to be chosen remains under consideration as the judicial process moves forward.
In addition to these allegations, the Chekalins are facing tax-related scrutiny. Authorities contend that Valeria Chekalina was engaged in economic activity under a simplified taxation regime as an individual entrepreneur, reporting income up to a threshold that might not reflect actual earnings. The prosecution asserts that the blogger earned more than the declared amount while promising to bear any resulting penalties. The overall package of charges suggests a complex picture of financial behavior, compliance, and transparency concerns as the case unfolds.
Observers note that the investigation is focused on both financial movements and tax declarations tied to the defendants. The proceedings will determine whether the alleged illegal activities were carried out deliberately and to what extent the couple’s public profile influenced or intersected with their business operations. As the legal process continues, authorities and defense counsel are expected to present evidence, arguments, and interpretations of the financial records and tax filings in question, with the court tasked with delivering a ruling based on the full scope of the case as established by law.
Meanwhile, the public discourse around the affair highlights broader questions about transparency among online creators and the regulatory frameworks governing small business activities in Russia. The case underscores the importance of rigorous compliance and the potential consequences of missteps in tax reporting and money movements when personal finance intersects with public influence. As both sides prepare for further court proceedings, the outcome will shape not only the fate of the Chekalins but also the ongoing conversation about accountability and regulation in the influencer space, both domestically and for observers monitoring similar issues globally. [Citation: Moscow prosecutor’s office (official release).]