Former SPL Hearts Owner Vladimir Romanov 'Suspected Of Large-Scale Embezzlement'

Scotland prosecutors have said that former Scottish Premier League Hearts Owner Vladimir Romanov "is suspected of large-scale embezzlement" at collapsed Lithuanian bank Ukio Bankas, where he was former majority shareholder, according to Brian Donnelly of the HERALD SCOTLAND. An int'l arrest warrant "has been issued in an effort to bring the elusive businessman back from Russia." Romanov is "wanted for questioning over alleged crimes that, if he was convicted, would see him jailed for up to seven years" (HERALD SCOTLAND, 8/6). The PA's Gavin McCafferty reported Ukio Bankas is owed £15M ($23M) by Hearts and owns 30% of the club's shares. Lithuania's General Prosecutor's Office's Vilma Mazone said, "V Romanov has been recognized as a suspect and is suspected of having squandered high-value property belonging to the bank Ukio Bankas" (PA, 8/6).