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Kazakh Court Suspends Pastor's Sentence

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A retired Presbyterian pastor has been set free from a Kazakhstan prison.

Pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbayev, 67, served eight months on charges that he harmed the health of a church member, incited hatred and led an organization that harms others.

The retired pastor's conviction came even though the alleged victim said she'd not been harmed.

On Monday, a Kazakh court suspended his four-year prison term and dropped all the other charges against him. He still must pay an $11,000 fine.

Members of Astana Grace Church said the Kazakh government has often targeted the pastor and their church.

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