Translated with AI
Russian roofers Ivan Birkus (Kuznetsov) and Angelina Nikolaou, who climbed to the top of the Empire State Building in New York City, could face up to 20 years in prison, the Manhattan District Attorney's Office told RIA Novosti.
The prosecutor's office stated that the defendants' actions created a mortal threat to another person and were committed under circumstances that indicated criminal disregard for human life.
Birkus and Nicolaou were charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree criminal damage to property, and third-degree burglary. They also face a misdemeanor charge of trespassing on rooftops.
According to the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, the Russians damaged property valued at more than $1,500.
Birkus and Nicolaou climbed to the top of the 1,454-foot Empire State Building, or about 443 meters, on July 1. They wore black clothing and masks.
Roofers attached a banner to the skyscraper's antenna with the phrase: "When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace."
After the couple descended from the spire to the platform, Birkus proposed to Nikolaou. The roofers were arrested that same day.
Preliminary hearings for Birkus and Nicolaou took place on July 2. They pleaded not guilty. The Russians were released without bail, and the next court hearing is scheduled for August 24.
The roofers' lawyer, Jason Krinsky, called the charges brought against his client excessive.
Birkus and Nikolaou are known for their risky, unprotected skyscraper climbs. They were featured in the Netflix documentary "Skywalkers: A Love Story," released in 2024.
The film shows their ascent of Malaysia's 2,227-foot, or 678-meter, Merdeka Tower 118.
