The cassation instance of the criminal cases judicial board of the Fergana Regional Court has reviewed the high-profile criminal case involving officials of 'Garden Catering Trade' LLC, resulting in the overturning of a controversial initial verdict. This judicial development addresses the severe public backlash and criticisms that arose following an incident of mass food poisoning among young children in the region's preschool institutions.
Key Takeaways: The cassation court overturned the previous lenient ruling issued by the Furkat District Court on September 21, 2026, regarding company director Sh.T. and technologist R.A., handing down new prison sentences of 4 years and 3 years and 6 months respectively under the Criminal Code.
The background of the case dates back to February 20, 2026, when 105 children at several public kindergartens in Fergana suffered acute food poisoning after consuming meals supplied by 'Garden Catering Trade'. Subsequent investigations revealed that the defendants were not only responsible for the sanitary violations leading to the mass illness but were also implicated in additional crimes, including financial embezzlement, misappropriation, and the falsification of official documents.
During the initial trial, the district court had granted the defendants lenient sentences—involving correctional labor and restrictions of liberty—allowing them to be released directly from the courtroom. The court at the time cited mitigating factors such as the defendants' remorse, clean criminal records, full compensation of damages, and statements from victims' legal representatives claiming no remaining grievances, which triggered intense public disapproval across the country.
Following public outcry and subsequent appeals, regional judicial authorities reassessed the proceedings, emphasizing the critical importance of holding accountable those whose actions jeopardize minors' health and safety. The new cassation ruling ensures that the perpetrators will serve real custodial sentences, reinforcing the principle of legal accountability and public trust in the justice system.
Source: kun.uz