Bragg marriage-scheme suspects to stay in jail

[CommunityEditor]

RALEIGH, N.C. — Two Russian brothers accused of arranging marriages between Russian women and Fort Bragg soldiers will stay in jail until trial next year.

WRAL-TV reported Tuesday that U.S. District Court Judge Louise Wood Flanagan said “Sasha” Manin and Pavel “Pasha” Manin are a flight risk, citing Pavel Manin’s reservation for an overseas flight the day he was arrested.

The brothers, both Russian immigrants who served in the Army, are accused of collecting fees of $3,000 to $5,000 from women in exchange for arranging marriages with soldiers at Fort Bragg. The scheme would boost the soldiers’ housing allowance and gain U.S. citizenship for the women.

Two North Carolina-based soldiers pleaded guilty earlier this month to conspiracy to commit marriage fraud as part of a plea agreement.


Article: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2009/1...riages_101309/