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Empire State Building climbers face court after viral engagement
Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33, appeared in a New York City court on Monday following their viral illegal climb of the Empire State Building. The couple, who gained fame through the Netflix documentary ‘Skywalkers: A Love Story’, used the July 1 stunt to stage a marriage proposal atop the 443-meter skyscraper.
The pair faces several criminal charges, including burglary, reckless endangerment, and criminal mischief. Prosecutors allege they broke a lock on a 104th-floor security door and remained inside the building overnight before ascending the spire. Defense attorneys have argued the charges are excessive, characterizing the act as a form of ‘art’ that did not endanger others.
During the brief hearing, the couple remained silent behind their lawyers but were seen embracing and kissing for an extended period as they exited the courthouse. A follow-up court appearance has been scheduled for September 29.
Entities
Angelina Nikolau · Empire State Building · Ivan Kuznetsov · Jason Krinsky · Manhattan · Manhattan Criminal Court · Netflix · New York
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Defense attorney Jason Krinsky argues the charges are excessive and that the stunt did not endanger occupants or visitors. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] A lock on a security door on the 104th floor was broken to allow access to the broadcasting antenna. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Ivan Kuznetsov and Angelina Nikolau gained access to restricted areas and climbed over 1,300 feet above Manhattan. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Security cameras recorded the pair moving through a hatch on the 102nd floor at approximately 5 a.m. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Investigators believe the couple entered the building and stayed overnight before the climb. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The couple characterized the climb as a celebration of love. 6abc.com · abc13.com · abc7.com