Slovak Supreme Court to review Polko corruption case in September

The Supreme Court of the Slovak Republic is scheduled to review a case involving former judge Polko in September. In April 2025, the Specialized Criminal Court in Pezinok acquitted Polko of indirect corruption charges, citing a lack of evidence that the alleged act actually occurred.

The case stems from an incident in 2015, where it was alleged that a judge from the Žilina Regional Court was promised a bribe of up to 10,000 euros to ensure a favorable outcome regarding a request for parole. While the prosecution has appealed the acquittal, the defendant maintains his innocence, arguing the indictment was based on a non-existent event.

The court noted that the primary evidence relied upon was the testimony of witness František Tótha, which was found to be in substantial contradiction with the testimony of another witness, Patrik Murza. Additionally, the court observed that the decision regarding parole was made by a senate, meaning the influence of a single judge might not have been decisive.