Skopje, 13 May 2025 (MIA) – Vasil Jovanov was sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Skopje-based Criminal Court on Tuesday, after pleading guilty to 'serious crimes against the safety of people and property in traffic,' for fatally hitting Frosina Kulakova in January at Partizanski Odredi boulevard in downtown Skopje.

During the announcement of the verdict today at the Criminal Court in Skopje, Judge Snezana Markovska stated that the Court considered as mitigating circumstances the defendant’s guilty plea and sense of remorse, his awareness of the seriousness of the crime and its consequences, his age and lack of sufficient life experience, his prior conduct as an active student and athlete, as well as his post-accident behaviour.

As aggravating circumstances, the Court considered the intensity of the actions and violation of numerous provisions of the traffic law, the degree of danger involved in committing the crime as well as the fact that the defendant had previously been sentenced to three years and ten months in prison for illegal drug trafficking, and ongoing proceedings for endangering pedestrians and showing completely dismissive attitude toward them.

Particularly as an aggravating circumstance, the Court considers the loss of a young life, which is most deeply felt by the parents and family.

The Court, taking into account the purposes of the law and all relevant circumstances, including the guilty plea, has issued the following verdict: “Vasil Jovanov is found guilty of driving without a license, running a red light, and driving under the influence of alcohol when he struck pedestrian Frosina Kulakova, who was crossing on a green light. The accident caused severe injuries leading to her death on the spot. The court has sentenced him to 12 years in prison, taking into account the time already spent in detention, a five-year driving ban, and a fine to cover legal costs,” according to the judge.

The verdict is not final, and Jovanov has the right to appeal to a higher court.

Photo: MIA