Former Parliament Member, Petr Kott, Released from Prison

Former Parliament Member, Petr Kott, Released from Prison

Petr Kott’s Conditional Release

Petr Kott, former deputy and Member of Parliament, has been conditionally released from Brno prison after serving more than half of his eight-year sentence for corruption. His release was facilitated by the Brno Municipal Court, following his good behavior in prison and compliance in paying his fine of 15 million Czech crowns. Kott was incarcerated in connection with a series of manipulated contracts in the Central Bohemian Region.

Remorse and Future Plans

Following his release, Kott has expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging their illegality and immorality. He has particularly lamented the impact his actions had on his family, especially his parents and children, and has shown a keen desire to make amends. In the period following his release, Kott plans to return to his medical career. He has scheduled to work at a hospital in Beroun, thereby avoiding potential complications, as his wife also works in the medical field and is currently serving her sentence.

Wife’s Sentence and Work Arrangement

Kott’s wife, Kateřina Kottová, is presently serving time in a Prague prison but is permitted to travel to work at a hospital in Motol. This arrangement allows her to continue her professional duties while serving her term.

Corruption Charges and Sentences

Kott, his wife, and former Central Bohemian governor David Rath were initially sentenced for corruption related to the renovation of Buštěhrad Castle and a Hostivice gymnasium, and bribes worth approximately 26 million crowns. The sentences were subsequently increased in a second branch of the case, which involved tenders for repairs and expansion of hospital facilities in Mladá Boleslav, Kolín, and Kladno.

David Rath’s Sentence and Appeal

David Rath, initially sentenced to seven years in prison, saw his sentence extended by a year. The sentences included time spent in pre-trial detention in 2012 and 2013. The largest Czech construction company, Metrostav, was also implicated in the second part of the case, receiving a three-year ban on fulfilling public contracts. Rath, Kott, and the construction company have appealed the verdict, which will be reviewed by the Supreme Court.

Petr Kott’s Public Service and Penalties

Petr Kott, now 61, served in the Parliament from 2002 to 2006. After leaving the Parliament, he led the Central Bohemian branch of VZP. Following his conviction, he was required to pay a multimillion fine and damages caused by him, his wife, and Rath.