Brittney Griner’s drug conviction in line with Russia’s laws, but sentence length uncertain

The sentencing of WNBA star Brittney Griner to nine years behind bars and a fine of 1 million rubles — between US$10,000 and $20,000 depending on the exchange rate — should come as no surprise to those familiar with Russian law.

The country has long enforced strict drug laws and has a well-deserved reputation for zero-tolerance jurisdiction.