The American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ) has released
information that American Pastor Saeed Abedini, who has been held prisoner
since September for his faith in Christ, was sentenced Sunday morning to eight
years in the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran.
According to the report, Abedini's lawyer was called to court on the pretext of
Abedini's release. Instead, a verbal sentence of eight years was delivered by
Judge Pir-Abassi of the Iranian Revolutionary Court - a judge known for his
propensity to hang those he convicts.
Earlier, a letter from Saeed Abedini, which was reprinted in AG News (click here for letter),
spoke of beatings and other physical and psychological torture at the hands of
his captors. Many fear this type of cruel treatment will continue throughout
Abedini's imprisonment.
"Naghmeh Abedini and I have been in constant
contact over these months," states AG General Superintendent George O.
Wood. "She phoned me early this morning to let me know of Saeed's sentence
of eight years. I have again assured her of the prayers of our Assemblies of
God family for Saeed's release as well as praying for those who unjustly detain
him, and that we were doing everything possible to encourage the continued
involvement of our government and the international community in working for
the release of Saeed, who holds American citizenship."
To view the ACLJ news releases concerning Saeed Abedini's sentencing, click here.
