U.S. student released from Russian jail

 

Overview: Was John Tobin guilty of possessing drugs? Was he a U.S. spy? Was Russia courting him to become a Russian spy? While these questions remain unanswered, the 24-year old Fulbright scholar and his family can now feel relief that Tobin has been released after serving six months in a Russian prison for a drug charge. Students can learn more about his ordeal, debate the circumstances of his sentencing, and research drug possession penalties in the United States and other countries.

Curriculum connections - Social studies - international law

After students read the CNNfyi.com article, "Russia frees jailed U.S. student" ask the following questions:

1. Why is John Tobin in the news? What was he doing in Russia at the time he was arrested? What were the charges? How did he plead? Why did he receive an early release from his sentence?

2. Of what did the Russian Federal Security Service suspect Tobin? What was Tobin's response to their claim? Do you think the public will ever know the truth about those allegations? Why or why not?

3. How dangerous is it to be found in possession of illegal drugs in other countries? Students can research drug laws in their own country and two or three other countries. Have them create tables that compare and contrast what can happen to those who are accused of possessing or trafficking in illegal drugs while traveling outside their own countries.

Extension: What is a Fulbright Scholar, and how does one qualify? Students can look up the details online or in print documents to better understand the difficult competition for this esteemed academic award.