Overview

• David Barnes of Texas was convicted by a Russian court for allegedly sexually abusing his two sons, a claim dismissed by U.S. authorities.
• Barnes' ex-wife, Svetlana Koptyaeva, accused him of the abuse, leading to his arrest and conviction in Russia despite insufficient evidence in Texas.
• Barnes was sentenced to 21 years in a high-security penal colony, with his family and legal team planning to appeal the verdict.
• The U.S. State Department is in communication with Barnes, his family, and his legal team, closely monitoring the case.
• A fundraiser set up by Barnes' sister has raised over $10,000 to support his legal defense and welfare.