Blogger Lerchek’s house arrest extended as she expects a child amid legal battle
Blogger Lerchek remains under house arrest after a court extended her detention by another six months. The decision came on 24 November 2024, as she and two associates face ongoing legal proceedings. Meanwhile, her fiancé, Luis Squicciarini, has announced they are expecting a child together.
Lerchek, her ex-husband Artem Chekalin, and their business partner Roman Vishnyak have been confined to house arrest since October 2024. Chekalin stands accused of illegally transferring over 251.6 million rubles, allegedly linked to fitness marathons organised by their company, Be Fit. Under the terms of her detention, Lerchek is prohibited from using communication devices or accessing the internet.
Squicciarini recently shared the news of their upcoming child, pledging to be a 'pillar of strength and protection' for Lerchek and their family. He publicly thanked her and her relatives for their support during this difficult period. Lerchek’s mother, Elvira, also expressed gratitude to followers for their encouragement.
Chekalin, who is already a father of three, is expecting his fourth child. The identity of Lerchek’s child’s father has not been publicly disclosed.
The extended house arrest means Lerchek will remain under strict restrictions for at least another six months. Her legal case continues alongside those of Chekalin and Vishnyak, while her personal life takes a new turn with the upcoming birth. Squicciarini’s public statements signal his commitment to supporting her through both challenges.