In 2024, a woman from Karakalpakstan who had been diagnosed with HIV in 2020, began living with her partner in Beruniy. Although she was legally and medically aware of her HIV-positive status—and had been explicitly warned of her criminal liability for knowingly exposing others to the virus—she allegedly did not disclose her condition to him.
From June 2024 onward, the couple engaged in regular unprotected sexual relations. After learning of her status, her partner chose to continue the relationship, motivated by affection and trust, but without taking personal protective measures.
Throughout the investigation, she fully admitted her guilt. She testified that she understood the seriousness of the risk she posed and expressed remorse for her conduct. Her partner also provided testimony, explaining that although he became aware of the risk, he had consented to continue the relationship and currently had no claims against her.
The court examined the case under Article 113 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan, which criminalises knowingly exposing another person to HIV or transmitting the virus. Considering her awareness of her infection, and the ongoing risk posed to her partner, the court found her guilty. Mitigating factors, including her remorse, cooperation with authorities, and the absence of claims from her partner, were weighed in sentencing.
She was sentenced to two years of correctional labor with a portion of her income forfeited.
