Mikautadze stated his readiness to compensate for the damage

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Former Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia Romeo Mikautadze, accused of money laundering, has pleaded not guilty but is prepared to enter into a plea bargain, admit to a non-existent crime, and compensate for non-existent damages.

As reported by the "Caucasian Knot," former Deputy Minister of Economy Romeo Mikautadze, suspected of abuse of office and money laundering, was arrested in June 2025. The court refused to release him on bail.

Former Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Romeo Mikautadze has asked the prosecutor's office to enter into a plea bargain, despite denying the charges and pleading not guilty, Georgia Online reported on March 13.

Mikautadze made this statement during his closing argument at the trial. He stated that he is prepared to "admit to a non-existent crime and compensate for non-existent damages so that the case can be concluded quickly." He also added that he had discussed the matter with his family: "We'll have to pay a fairly substantial sum, but we're not afraid."

As a reminder, according to investigators, Mikautadze abused his official position for personal gain between 2017 and 2024, "providing certain individuals with advantages in the energy sector" in exchange for shares in companies registered to front men. Investigators also allege that the official entered into fictitious employment contracts, received undeclared income, and laundered it through front men and "questionable transactions."