A Russian couple who climbed the Empire State Building in New York could face serious criminal charges and possible deportation.
Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, became widely known after their dangerous stunt went viral in July.
Their lawyer now fears deportation could expose them to severe consequences if they are returned to Russia.
The couple climbed the famous skyscraper on July 1 and displayed a black flag. It carried the message, “when the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
Kuznetsov also proposed to Nikolau at the top of the building. The moment was captured on camera and circulated widely online.
However, the stunt has now turned into a legal battle. The couple appeared in court on Thursday over charges connected to the climb.
They face felony charges of first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree criminal mischief and third-degree burglary. They also face a misdemeanor charge of unlawful climbing.
Speaking outside court, Kuznetsov denied that they intended to cause harm or damage.
He said, “We didn’t damage any property. We didn’t intend to put anyone in danger.”
He added, “We just wanted to send message of love, and we’re ready to defend ourselves.”
Their lawyer, Noam Biale, said prosecutors had previously offered a misdemeanor plea deal.
According to him, the agreement would have helped protect the couple from serious immigration problems.
However, Biale claimed the offer was withdrawn shortly before Thursday’s court appearance. He said the development could expose both clients to deportation.
He warned that returning to Russia could put Kuznetsov at risk of being sent to fight in Ukraine. He also claimed Nikolau could face imprisonment over her artistic expression.
“If sent back to Russia, Mr. Kuznetsov will almost certainly be sent to fight in the war in Ukraine and Ms. Nikolau may be jailed for her artistic expression,” Biale said.
Nikolau also explained the message behind their stunt, saying, “We wanted to share a message of peace with so much pain in the world today.”
However, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office disputed the lawyer’s account of the plea deal.
A spokesperson said, “As we stated in court, it is not accurate to state that any offer was withdrawn. The charges remain the same.”
