The most adequate measure of detention for the mayor of Varna Blagomir Kotsev would be the lightest - a remand. This was stated to the media in the seaside city by Kotsev's lawyer Nikolay Vladimirov. He arrived due to Kotsev's transfer from the detention center in Sofia to Varna, BTA reported.
A case to change the mayor's detention measure is pending on November 27, the lawyer recalled. He specified that if the court determines the lightest measure - a remand, Kotsev will no longer have restrictions and can return to the municipality. Vladimirov indicated that he is positive about this case, as well as about the final conclusion of the proceedings against the mayor. "I do not believe that there would be an option to convict him," said the defense attorney.
Regarding the upcoming decision of the Municipal Election Commission to remove Kotsev from his position, Vladimirov pointed out that this is a separate proceeding that should not affect the criminal one and in which he personally has no involvement. The OIC's decision can also be appealed - before the Administrative Court in Varna, the lawyer also said.
The convoy with the mayor of Varna, Blagomir Kotsev, who left the Central Sofia Prison, arrived in Varna shortly before 5:00 p.m.
In front of the prison were the mayor's wife and father, his friends and supporters, who chanted: "Blago, we are with you!".
The mayor of Varna was detained on July 8, 2025. On November 13, the Sofia City Prosecutor's Office filed an indictment with the Sofia City Court. Four more defendants were brought to trial together with Kotsev, for a total of 12 crimes. On November 19, the Supreme Court of Cassation decided that the case should be heard in the District Court in Varna, and not by the Sofia City Court.